Is Fairplay, CO Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C, with 16 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
61.8/100
waterverge.com Fairplay, CO — Water Quality Report
Fairplay's drinking water received a grade of C (61.8 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 1,159 residents using ground water under influence.
Lead levels were measured at 9.5 ppb (90th percentile), which is within EPA limits but above recommended levels. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 114 violations on record, including 2 health-based violations. 16 remain unresolved.
What to know about Fairplay's water
Fairplay ranks #140 out of 246 cities in Colorado for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Fairplay 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.
While lead levels are within EPA limits, they are above the recommended 5 ppb threshold that health organizations consider ideal. A point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
As a small community water system, Fairplay may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 16 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Fairplay, CO water safe to drink?
Fairplay's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C (61.8/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 1,159 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Fairplay
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Fairplay's water quality assessment. Grade: C (61.8/100).
1 health-based. Contaminants: Surface Water Treatment Rule.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Surface Water Treatment Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4229). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3224). Coastal Storm event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Fairplay's water supply.
Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.
Violation history
Fairplay's water system has 114 total violations on record, including 2 health-based violations. 16 remain unresolved. 16 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Park County has experienced 3 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 Tarryall Creek.
Where does Fairplay's water come from?
Fairplay's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 1,159 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Tarryall Creek (river).
What Fairplay residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Fairplay'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.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Fairplay'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
Drought conditions
D4 — exceptional droughtPark County is currently in D4 (exceptional drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). 22.8% of the county is in D4 (exceptional) drought. Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
Park County has experienced 3 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 Fairplay'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. | 9.5 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Fairplay compares by contaminant
Explore where Fairplay ranks among all Colorado cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Fairplay's water comes from
Fairplay'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 local government ownership and serves approximately 1,159 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Fairplay
Fairplay is located near 1 notable water body. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Fairplay
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| FAIRPLAY TOWN OF | CO0147020 | 909 | GU |
| WARM SPRINGS OWNERS MUTUAL WA | CO0147180 | 250 | GW |
How Fairplay compares
Full Colorado rankings →Fairplay's score of 61.8/100 is above the average of 45/100 among major Colorado cities. It outscores 9 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Colorado rankings →About Fairplay, CO
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Fairplay's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Park
Frequently asked questions
Is Fairplay, CO tap water safe to drink?
Fairplay's water quality earned a grade of C (61.8/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #140 out of 246 cities tested in Colorado.
What contaminants are in Fairplay's water?
Lead was measured at 9.5 ppb (90th percentile). 114 violations are on record.
How is Fairplay'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 Fairplay?
While lead levels are within EPA limits, a filter adds extra protection. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Fairplay's water come from?
Fairplay's water is sourced from Ground water under influence. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 1,159 residents.
What health violations has Fairplay's water system had?
Fairplay has 2 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in September 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 16 violations remain unresolved.
Is Fairplay's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Fairplay 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 114 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 Fairplay's water compare to other cities?
Fairplay ranks #140 out of 246 cities in Colorado (better than 43% of state cities) and #11957 out of 15744 cities nationally (24th percentile). The grade of C reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.