Is Ravensdale, WA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B-, with 14 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
72.6/100
waterverge.com Ravensdale, WA — Water Quality Report
Ravensdale's drinking water received a grade of B- (72.6 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 5 water systems serve approximately 557 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 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 257 violations on record, including 22 health-based violations. 14 remain unresolved.
What to know about Ravensdale's water
Ravensdale ranks #158 out of 294 cities in Washington for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Ravensdale 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, Ravensdale may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 6 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Ravensdale, WA water safe to drink?
Ravensdale's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B- (72.6/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 5 water systems serve approximately 557 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Ravensdale
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Ravensdale's water quality assessment. Grade: B- (72.6/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3629). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4539). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Ravensdale's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
Ravensdale's water system has 257 total violations on record, including 22 health-based violations. 14 remain unresolved. 6 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
King County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1990. 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 Green River, Newaukum Creek, Green River Below Crisp Creek Nr Black Diamond, Taylor Creek, Cedar River.
Where does Ravensdale's water come from?
Ravensdale's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 5 water systems serving approximately 557 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Green River (river), Newaukum Creek (river), Green River Below Crisp Creek Nr Black Diamond (river), Taylor Creek (river), Cedar River (river).
What Ravensdale residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Ravensdale'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.
Ravensdale'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
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Ravensdale
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.
- QUEEN CITY FARMS6.7 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Flood & disaster history
King County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1990. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
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. | 0.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Ravensdale compares by contaminant
Explore where Ravensdale ranks among all Washington cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Ravensdale's water comes from
Ravensdale'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 557 people through 5 water systems.
Water bodies near Ravensdale
Ravensdale is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Ravensdale
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAKE RETREAT CAMP & CONF CENTER | WA5344400 | 404 | GW |
| BRIDLE TRAILS SOUTH WATER SYSTEM | WA5312232 | 42 | GW |
| NEW ARCADIA WATER SYSTEM | WA5361533 | 39 | GW |
| LAKE RETREAT FIRS #2 WATER ASSOC. | WA5344416 | 38 | GW |
| RAVENSDALE MOBILE HOME PARK | WA5371397 | 34 | GW |
How Ravensdale compares
Full Washington rankings →Ravensdale's score of 72.6/100 is above the average of 53/100 among major Washington cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Washington rankings →About Ravensdale, WA
Wikipedia →Ravensdale is a census-designated place (CDP) in King County, Washington, United States. The population was 555 at the 2020 census.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Ravensdale's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across King
Frequently asked questions
Is Ravensdale, WA tap water safe to drink?
Ravensdale's water quality earned a grade of B- (72.6/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #158 out of 294 cities tested in Washington.
What contaminants are in Ravensdale's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 257 violations are on record.
How is Ravensdale'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 Ravensdale?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Ravensdale's water come from?
Ravensdale's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 5 water systems serving approximately 557 residents.
What health violations has Ravensdale's water system had?
Ravensdale has 22 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in February 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 14 violations remain unresolved.
Is Ravensdale's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Ravensdale 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 257 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 Ravensdale's water compare to other cities?
Ravensdale ranks #158 out of 294 cities in Washington (better than 46% of state cities) and #10285 out of 15744 cities nationally (35th percentile). The grade of B- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.