B66/100
Appleton Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 87,535 residents · Wisconsin
What's In Appleton'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) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – September 27, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – September 27, 2023Enforcement: 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
DARBOY SANITARY DIST 1
Population Served
13,024
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WI4450117
APPLETON WATERWORKS
Population Served
74,511
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
WI4450333
Frequently Asked Questions About Appleton Water
Is Appleton tap water safe to drink?
Appleton, Wisconsin tap water receives a grade of B (66/100), which is considered good. Out of 70 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 Appleton's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Appleton's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), strontium. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Appleton have any water quality violations?
Yes, Appleton has 39 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Appleton?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Appleton 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 Appleton's tap water come from?
Appleton's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by DARBOY SANITARY DIST 1 and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 87,535 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Appleton'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. Appleton'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 Appleton's water compare to other cities in Wisconsin?
Appleton's water quality score of 66/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Wisconsin state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Appleton's water quality?
If you have concerns about Appleton'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 (DARBOY SANITARY DIST 1) 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.