Is Elm Grove, WI Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
43/100
waterverge.com Elm Grove, WI — Water Quality Report
Elm Grove's drinking water received a grade of F (43 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 7 water systems serve approximately 1,177 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 1.3 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 294 violations on record, including 28 health-based violations. 100 remain unresolved.
What to know about Elm Grove's water
Elm Grove ranks #435 out of 446 cities in Wisconsin for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Elm Grove relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
As a small community water system, Elm Grove may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 23 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Elm Grove, WI water safe to drink?
Elm Grove's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (43/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 7 water systems serve approximately 1,177 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Elm Grove
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Elm Grove's water quality assessment. Grade: F (43/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4892). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS, Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
2 health-based. Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS, Public Notice.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3249). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Elm Grove's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Elm Grove's water system has 294 total violations on record, including 28 health-based violations. 100 remain unresolved. 23 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Waukesha County has experienced 7 federally declared disasters since 1969. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Lincoln Creek @ Sherman Boulevard, Menomonee River, Little Menomonee River, Underwood Creek, Honey Creek.
Where does Elm Grove's water come from?
Elm Grove's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 7 water systems serving approximately 1,177 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Lincoln Creek @ Sherman Boulevard (river), Menomonee River (river), Little Menomonee River (river), Underwood Creek (river), Honey Creek (river).
What Elm Grove residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Elm Grove's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Elm Grove's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Elm Grove
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Elm Grove, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 282 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
UNIT DROP FORGE CO. INC. WEST ALLIS, WI53234 | Chromium | 155 | 5.5 mi |
METALTEK INTERNATIONAL-WISCO NSIN CENTRIFUGAL DIV WAUKESHA, WI53188 | Copper | 64 | 7.2 mi |
GREDE HOLDINGS LLC WAUWATOSA, WI53213 | Nickel | 36 | 4.7 mi |
NORTHERN STAINLESS CORP PEWAUKEE, WI53072 | Copper | 15 | 8.4 mi |
MAYNARD STEEL CASTING CO MILWAUKEE, WI53215 | Manganese And Manganese Compounds | 12 | 8.0 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Elm Grove
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- WASTE MANAGEMENT OF WISCONSIN INC BROOKFIELD SANITARY LANDFILL3.1 mi
- MASTER DISPOSAL SERVICE LANDFILL5.0 mi
- MOSS AMERICAN CO INC KERR MCGEE OIL CO9.2 mi
- LAUER I SANITARY LANDFILL9.3 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Flood & disaster history
Waukesha County has experienced 7 federally declared disasters since 1969. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Elm Grove's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 1.3 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 4.40 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 4.400 mg/L (2015)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Elm Grove compares by contaminant
Explore where Elm Grove ranks among all Wisconsin cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Elm Grove's water comes from
Elm Grove's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by private ownership and serves approximately 1,177 people through 7 water systems.
Water bodies near Elm Grove
Elm Grove is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Elm Grove
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| SQUIRES GROVE | WI2680201 | 410 | GW |
| MARIAN HEIGHTS SUBDIVISION | WI2680203 | 400 | GW |
| EMERALD WOODS CONDOS | WI2685370 | 150 | GW |
| ELM GROVE TERRACE | WI2680279 | 75 | GW |
| DOUGLAS PLAZA SOUTH | WI2680862 | 62 | GW |
| CARRIAGE HILLS CONDOMINIUMS | WI2682406 | 50 | GW |
| DOUGLAS PLAZA NORTH | WI2680288 | 30 | GW |
How Elm Grove compares
Full Wisconsin rankings →Elm Grove's score of 43/100 is below the average of 65/100 among major Wisconsin cities. It outscores 1 of 10 nearby cities. 9 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View Wisconsin rankings →About Elm Grove, WI
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Elm Grove's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Waukesha
Frequently asked questions
Is Elm Grove, WI tap water safe to drink?
Elm Grove's water quality earned a grade of F (43/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #435 out of 446 cities tested in Wisconsin.
What contaminants are in Elm Grove's water?
Lead was measured at 1.3 ppb (90th percentile). 294 violations are on record.
How is Elm Grove's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Elm Grove?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Elm Grove's water come from?
Elm Grove's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 7 water systems serving approximately 1,177 residents.
What health violations has Elm Grove's water system had?
Elm Grove has 28 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in July 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 100 violations remain unresolved.
Is Elm Grove's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Elm Grove uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 294 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Elm Grove's water compare to other cities?
Elm Grove ranks #435 out of 446 cities in Wisconsin (better than 2% of state cities) and #14700 out of 15744 cities nationally (7th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.