B66/100
Des Moines Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,037 residents · Washington
What's In Des Moines's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Maximum Contaminant Level Violation
When: June 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
KING COUNTY WATER DISTRICT #54
Population Served
5,037
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
WA5339950
Frequently Asked Questions About Des Moines Water
Is Des Moines tap water safe to drink?
Des Moines, Washington tap water receives a grade of B (66/100), which is considered good. Out of 31 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Des Moines's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Des Moines's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Des Moines have any water quality violations?
Yes, Des Moines has 11 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MCL, Other, MR. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Des Moines?
Des Moines water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Des Moines's tap water come from?
Des Moines's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by KING COUNTY WATER DISTRICT #54. The system serves approximately 5,037 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Des Moines's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Des Moines's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Des Moines's water compare to other cities in Washington?
Des Moines's water quality score of 66/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Washington state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Des Moines's water quality?
If you have concerns about Des Moines's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (KING COUNTY WATER DISTRICT #54) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.