Is Rockdale, IL Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C- — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
56.9/100
waterverge.com Rockdale, IL — Water Quality Report
Rockdale's drinking water received a grade of C- (56.9 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 2,012 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 12.8 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 62 violations on record, including 36 health-based violations. 16 remain unresolved.
What to know about Rockdale's water
Rockdale ranks #822 out of 891 cities in Illinois for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Rockdale 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, Rockdale may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 14 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Rockdale, IL water safe to drink?
Rockdale's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C- (56.9/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 2,012 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Rockdale
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Rockdale's water quality assessment. Grade: C- (56.9/100).
Contaminants: Combined Radium (-226 and -228).
Contaminants: Combined Radium (-226 and -228), Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4819). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4116). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Rockdale'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.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Rockdale's water system has 62 total violations on record, including 36 health-based violations. 16 remain unresolved. 14 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Will County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1974. 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 Chicago Sanitary And Ship Canal, Long Run, Des Plaines River, Des Plaines River In Lock Channel, Hickory Creek.
Where does Rockdale's water come from?
Rockdale's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 2,012 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Chicago Sanitary And Ship Canal (river), Long Run (river), Des Plaines River (river), Des Plaines River In Lock Channel (river), Hickory Creek (river).
What Rockdale residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Rockdale'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.
Rockdale'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 Rockdale
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Rockdale, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 559,546 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
EXXONMOBIL OIL CORP JOLIET REFINERY CHANNAHON, IL60410 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 510,736 | 7.4 mi |
INEOS JOLIET LLC CHANNAHON, IL60410 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 41,333 | 5.3 mi |
STEPAN CO MILLSDALE ROAD ELWOOD, IL60421 | Ammonia | 7,410 | 6.2 mi |
LARAWAY RECYCLING & DISPOSAL FACILITY JOLIET, IL60436 | Manganese | 54 | 2.0 mi |
INEOS STYROLUTION AMERICA LLC CHANNAHON, IL60410 | Zinc compounds | 13 | 4.2 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Rockdale
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.
- AMOCO CHEMICALS JOLIET LANDFILL5.0 mi
- JOLIET ARMY AMMUNITION PLANT MANUFACTURING AREA9.0 mi
- JOLIET ARMY AMMUNITION PLANT LOAD ASSEMBLY PACKING AREA9.9 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Flood & disaster history
Will County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1974. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Rockdale'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. | 12.8 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Near Limit |
| 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. | 1.36 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Rockdale compares by contaminant
Explore where Rockdale ranks among all Illinois cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Rockdale's water comes from
Rockdale'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 2,012 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Rockdale
Rockdale is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Rockdale
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| ROCKDALE | IL1970850 | 2,012 | GW |
How Rockdale compares
Full Illinois rankings →Rockdale's score of 56.9/100 is on par with the average of 56/100 among major Illinois cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Illinois rankings →About Rockdale, IL
Wikipedia →Rockdale is a village in Will County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2020 census, Rockdale had a population of 2,012.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Rockdale's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Will
Frequently asked questions
Is Rockdale, IL tap water safe to drink?
Rockdale's water quality earned a grade of C- (56.9/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #822 out of 891 cities tested in Illinois.
What contaminants are in Rockdale's water?
Lead was measured at 12.8 ppb (90th percentile). 62 violations are on record.
How is Rockdale'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 Rockdale?
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 Rockdale's water come from?
Rockdale's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 2,012 residents.
What health violations has Rockdale's water system had?
Rockdale has 36 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 16 violations remain unresolved.
Is Rockdale's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Rockdale 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 62 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 Rockdale's water compare to other cities?
Rockdale ranks #822 out of 891 cities in Illinois (better than 8% of state cities) and #12416 out of 15744 cities nationally (21th percentile). The grade of C- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.
Does Rockdale's small water system affect quality?
Rockdale's system serves approximately 2,012 residents. Small community water systems (under 3,300 people) may have fewer financial resources for infrastructure upgrades and advanced treatment technologies. However, they are held to the same EPA drinking water standards as larger systems. This system has 62 violations on record.