D29/100
Lynden Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 22,955 residents · Washington
What's In Lynden's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2025 – July 31, 2025Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Violation related to Nitrate
When: December 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment 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
LYNDEN WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
17,969
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
WA5349150
NOOKSACK VALLEY WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
1,343
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
WA5359850
POLE ROAD WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
1,545
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5368350
SANDY POINT IMPROVEMENT CO
Population Served
2,098
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5376105
Frequently Asked Questions About Lynden Water
Is Lynden tap water safe to drink?
Lynden, Washington tap water receives a grade of D (29/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 199 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Lynden's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Lynden'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 Lynden have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lynden has 199 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, TT, Other. 27 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lynden?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Lynden 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 Lynden's tap water come from?
Lynden's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by LYNDEN WATER DEPARTMENT and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 22,955 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Lynden'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. Lynden'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 Lynden's water compare to other cities in Washington?
Lynden's water quality score of 29/100 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 Lynden's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lynden'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 (LYNDEN 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.