D32/100
Kennewick Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 121,130 residents · Washington
What's In Kennewick's Tap Water?
77
Contaminants Tested
4
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
5 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.40 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.011 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFHxS | 0.011 µg/L | 0.010 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
SUMMIT VIEW WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
1,869
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5303303
Community Sewer and Water District
Population Served
1,200
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5305966
BADGER MOUNTAIN IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Population Served
2,331
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
WA5322617
KENNEWICK CITY OF
Population Served
114,468
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
WA5338100
BC WATER CO
Population Served
1,262
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA53AA373
Frequently Asked Questions About Kennewick Water
Is Kennewick tap water safe to drink?
Kennewick, Washington tap water receives a grade of D (32/100), which is considered poor. 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 197 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Kennewick's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Kennewick's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, Copper (90th percentile), PFOA, PFHxS, Lead (90th percentile). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 5 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Kennewick have any water quality violations?
Yes, Kennewick has 197 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MCL, MR. 29 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Kennewick?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Kennewick is recommended. 4 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 Kennewick's tap water come from?
Kennewick's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SUMMIT VIEW WATER SYSTEM and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 121,130 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Kennewick'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. Kennewick'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 Kennewick's water compare to other cities in Washington?
Kennewick's water quality score of 32/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Washington state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Kennewick's water quality?
If you have concerns about Kennewick'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 (SUMMIT VIEW 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.