F0/100
South Bend Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,930 residents · Washington
What's In South Bend's Tap Water?
27
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.023 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2007.
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
South Bend Water Department
Population Served
2,930
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
WA5381500
Frequently Asked Questions About South Bend Water
Is South Bend tap water safe to drink?
South Bend, Washington tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 322 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in South Bend's water?
Of the 27 contaminants tested in South Bend's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does South Bend have any water quality violations?
Yes, South Bend has 322 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2007. Violation types include MR, TT, MCL. 83 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in South Bend?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in South Bend 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 South Bend's tap water come from?
South Bend's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by South Bend Water Department. The system serves approximately 2,930 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is South Bend'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. South Bend'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 South Bend's water compare to other cities in Washington?
South Bend's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. 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 South Bend's water quality?
If you have concerns about South Bend'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 (South Bend 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.