B68/100
Gig Harbor Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 17,912 residents · Washington
What's In Gig Harbor'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) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2015.
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
CANTERWOOD WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
1,805
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5305859
GIG HARBOR WATER DEPT
Population Served
14,902
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5327600
WASHINGTON STATE CORRECTIONS-WOMEN
Population Served
1,205
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5369945
Frequently Asked Questions About Gig Harbor Water
Is Gig Harbor tap water safe to drink?
Gig Harbor, Washington tap water receives a grade of B (68/100), which is considered good. Out of 32 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Gig Harbor's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Gig Harbor's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Gig Harbor have any water quality violations?
Yes, Gig Harbor has 56 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2018. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 6 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Gig Harbor?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Gig Harbor is recommended. 1 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Gig Harbor's tap water come from?
Gig Harbor's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CANTERWOOD WATER SYSTEM and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 17,912 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Gig Harbor'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. Gig Harbor'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 Gig Harbor's water compare to other cities in Washington?
Gig Harbor's water quality score of 68/100 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 Gig Harbor's water quality?
If you have concerns about Gig Harbor'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 (CANTERWOOD WATER SYSTEM) 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.