C44/100
Lake Tapps Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,500 residents · Washington
What's In Lake Tapps's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.40 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2025 – May 31, 2025Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – June 18, 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
TAPPS ISLAND WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
1,500
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5387181
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Tapps Water
Is Lake Tapps tap water safe to drink?
Lake Tapps, Washington tap water receives a grade of C (44/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 25 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Lake Tapps's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Lake Tapps'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 Lake Tapps have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lake Tapps has 25 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MON, Other, MR. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lake Tapps?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Lake Tapps 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 Lake Tapps's tap water come from?
Lake Tapps's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by TAPPS ISLAND WATER SYSTEM. The system serves approximately 1,500 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Lake Tapps'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. Lake Tapps'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 Lake Tapps's water compare to other cities in Washington?
Lake Tapps's water quality score of 44/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Washington state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Lake Tapps's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lake Tapps'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 (TAPPS ISLAND 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.