B67/100
Kent Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 358,878 residents · Washington
What's In Kent's Tap Water?
70
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 3.40 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2024 – November 12, 2024Enforcement: 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
KENT WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
166,421
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
WA5338150
HIGHLINE WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
115,950
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
WA5340650
COVINGTON WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
52,276
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
WA5341650
Lake Meridian Water District
Population Served
24,231
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
WA5341900
Frequently Asked Questions About Kent Water
Is Kent tap water safe to drink?
Kent, Washington tap water receives a grade of B (67/100), which is considered good. Out of 70 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 4 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 Kent's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Kent's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), PFOS, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Kent have any water quality violations?
Yes, Kent has 57 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 10 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Kent?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Kent is recommended. 2 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 Kent's tap water come from?
Kent's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by KENT WATER DEPARTMENT and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 358,878 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Kent'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. Kent'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 Kent's water compare to other cities in Washington?
Kent's water quality score of 67/100 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 Kent's water quality?
If you have concerns about Kent'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 (KENT WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.