Is Salt Lake City, UT Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper, Strontium and 2 more were detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
35.3/100
waterverge.com Salt Lake City, UT — Water Quality Report
Salt Lake City's drinking water received a grade of F (35.3 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 9 water systems serve approximately 540,581 residents using surface water.
Lead levels were measured at 1.9 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 5 PFAS compounds, with levels exceeding EPA maximum contaminant levels in the water supply.
The system has 1338 violations on record, including 26 health-based violations. 52 remain unresolved.
What to know about Salt Lake City's water
Salt Lake City ranks #174 out of 177 cities in Utah for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
The city draws from surface water sources, which are more susceptible to seasonal runoff and agricultural contamination, requiring extensive multi-barrier treatment including coagulation, filtration, and disinfection.
Of particular concern: PFAS "forever chemical" levels exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels. These synthetic compounds don't break down naturally and require specialized filtration such as reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 2.23 µg/L in UCMR 3 testing. While below California's 10 µg/L limit and with no federal MCL set, residents sensitive to this contaminant may consider reverse osmosis filtration.
As a major metropolitan system serving over 541K residents, Salt Lake City faces large-scale infrastructure challenges including aging pipes and the complexity of treating water across a vast distribution network.
The system has seen 18 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Salt Lake City, UT water safe to drink?
Salt Lake City's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (35.3/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 9 water systems serve approximately 540,581 residents using surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
Recent water quality updates for Salt Lake City
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
PFAS levels exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or activated carbon filtration recommended.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Salt Lake City's water quality assessment. Grade: F (35.3/100).
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule, E. COLI.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4011). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Salt Lake City's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
PFAS "forever chemicals" exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filtration strongly recommended.
PFAS "forever chemicals" detected
UCMR 5 testing found 5 PFAS compounds in Salt Lake City's water supply. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and the human body.
Violation history
Salt Lake City's water system has 1,338 total violations on record, including 26 health-based violations. 52 remain unresolved. 18 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Salt Lake County has experienced 4 federally declared disasters since 1983. 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 Little Cottonwood Creek @ Jordan River Nr Slc, Surplus Canal @ Salt Lake City, Jordan River @ 1700 South @ Salt Lake City, Red Butte Creek, Jordan River @ Cudahy Lane Nr Salt Lake City.
Where does Salt Lake City's water come from?
Salt Lake City's drinking water comes from surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), supplied by 9 water systems serving approximately 540,581 people. Surface water sources are more susceptible to contamination from runoff, industrial discharge, and algal blooms, requiring extensive treatment. Nearby water bodies include Little Cottonwood Creek @ Jordan River Nr Slc (river), Surplus Canal @ Salt Lake City (stream), Jordan River @ 1700 South @ Salt Lake City (river), Red Butte Creek (river), Jordan River @ Cudahy Lane Nr Salt Lake City (river).
What Salt Lake City residents can do
Recommended: Reverse osmosis system. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Salt Lake City'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.
Salt Lake City'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 ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Salt Lake City
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Salt Lake City, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 61,399 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
CHEVRON PRODUCTS CO - SALT LAKE REFINERY SALT LAKE CITY, UT84116 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 55,554 | 3.0 mi |
KENNECOTT UTAH COPPER SMELTER & REFINERY MAGNA, UT84044 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 5,811 | 8.7 mi |
WEIR MINERALS LINATEX- SALT LAKE CITY SALT LAKE CITY, UT84119 | Lead compounds | 34 | 5.7 mi |
AMCOR MASONRY PRODUCTS NORTH SALT LAKE, UT84054 | Lead And Lead Compounds | 0 | 4.2 mi |
BIG WEST OIL LLC NORTH SALT LAKE, UT84054 | — | — | 4.5 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Salt Lake City
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.
- UTAH POWER LIGHT AMERICAN BARREL CO1.4 mi
- PORTLAND CEMENT KILN DUST 2 32.1 mi
- WASATCH CHEMICAL CO LOT 63.5 mi
- 700 SOUTH 1600 EAST PCE PLUME4.6 mi
- FIVE POINTS PCE PLUME7.1 mi
+ 2 more sites
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtMorgan County is currently in D2 (severe drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). 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
Salt Lake County has experienced 4 federally declared disasters since 1983. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Salt Lake City'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. | 1.9 | 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. | 1.43 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 4:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 6:2 FTS 6:2 FTSPFAS A fluorotelomer sulfonate commonly found at sites contaminated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting. Health EffectsPotential liver toxicity and endocrine disruption. Less studied but identified as a contaminant of concern. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), airports, military bases, and industrial facilities. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 9Cl-PF3ONS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| ADONA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| HFPO-DA HFPO-DA (GenX)PFAS A replacement for PFOA in manufacturing, marketed as safer but still a persistent "forever chemical." Also known as GenX. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, reproductive toxicity, immune system effects, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit10 ppt MCL Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing (used as PFOA replacement), industrial wastewater discharge. | ND | 0.01 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| lithium LithiumInorganic A naturally occurring alkali metal found in groundwater. Monitored under UCMR 5 to assess occurrence in drinking water. Health EffectsKidney effects at high doses. Low-level exposure effects under study; some research suggests neurological effects. EPA LimitNo MCL (monitoring only under UCMR 5) Common SourcesNatural mineral deposits, geothermal water, and industrial discharge. | 42.800 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| NEtFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NFDHA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NMeFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBA PFBAPFAS One of the shortest-chain PFAS compounds. Very mobile in water and difficult to remove with standard filtration. Health EffectsThyroid effects, potential developmental toxicity. Shorter half-life in body than long-chain PFAS. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and firefighting foam. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBS PFBSPFAS A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. While it clears the body faster than long-chain PFAS, it still persists in the environment. Health EffectsThyroid effects, reproductive and developmental toxicity, kidney effects. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam, and as a replacement chemical in manufacturing. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDoA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFEESA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpA PFHpAPFAS A medium-chain PFAS compound found in various environmental samples. Less studied than PFOA/PFOS but still considered a contaminant of concern. Health EffectsLiver effects, potential developmental toxicity, and endocrine disruption. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxA PFHxAPFAS A short-chain PFAS replacement chemical widely used after manufacturers phased out longer-chain PFAS. Very commonly detected in water. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, potential thyroid disruption. Considered less toxic than long-chain PFAS but still persistent. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial processes, firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and textile treatment. | 0.006 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFHxS PFHxSPFAS A medium-chain PFAS found in firefighting foam and consumer products. It has a long half-life in the human body, similar to long-chain PFAS. Health EffectsImmune system effects, thyroid disruption, and potential reproductive and developmental harm. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), waterproof textiles, food packaging, and industrial discharge. | 0.018 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFMBA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMPA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFNA PFNAPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound used in manufacturing fluoropolymers. It bioaccumulates in the body and is very persistent in the environment. Health EffectsDevelopmental effects, liver toxicity, immune suppression, and potential cancer risk. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing, industrial emissions, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOA PFOAPFAS A long-chain PFAS ("forever chemical") once widely used in nonstick coatings and firefighting foam. It persists in the body and environment for years. Health EffectsLinked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, and reproductive issues. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware manufacturing, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOS PFOSPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound historically used in stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foam. One of the most studied and persistent PFAS chemicals. Health EffectsLiver damage, immune system suppression, thyroid disruption, increased cholesterol, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), industrial sites, stain-resistant fabric treatments, and contaminated groundwater. | 0.007 | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Over MCL |
| PFPeA PFPeAPFAS A short-chain PFAS compound commonly detected in drinking water. One of the most frequently found PFAS in UCMR 5 monitoring. Health EffectsLess studied than PFOA/PFOS. Potential liver and thyroid effects. Research is ongoing. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam degradation, and consumer products. | 0.006 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFPeS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTrDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFUnA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.435 mg/L (2020)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Salt Lake City compares by contaminant
Explore where Salt Lake City ranks among all Utah cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Salt Lake City's water comes from
Salt Lake City's drinking water comes primarily from surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.
Surface water systems require multi-stage treatment including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to meet EPA Safe Drinking Water Act standards.
These sources can be impacted by seasonal changes, stormwater runoff, upstream agriculture, and industrial discharge.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 540,581 people through 9 water systems.
Water bodies near Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is located near 5 notable water bodies. As a surface water system, these water bodies may directly influence the city's drinking water supply.
Water systems serving Salt Lake City
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| SALT LAKE CITY WATER SYSTEM | UTAH18026 | 381,174 | SW |
| GRANGER-HUNTER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT | UTAH18007 | 121,083 | SWP |
| WHITE CITY WID | UTAH18019 | 15,800 | GW |
| HOLLIDAY WATER COMPANY | UTAH18010 | 15,000 | SWP |
| MOUNTAIN GREEN MUTUAL WATER COMPANY | UTAH15046 | 3,500 | GW |
| VA MEDICAL CENTER SLC | UTAH18173 | 2,798 | SWP |
| EMIGRATION IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT | UTAH18143 | 1,000 | GW |
| BOUNDARY SPRING WATER CO | UTAH18050 | 150 | GW |
| WOODENSHOE WATER COMPANY | UTAH22058 | 76 | GW |
How Salt Lake City compares
Full Utah rankings →Salt Lake City's score of 35.3/100 is below the average of 54/100 among major Utah cities. 10 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View Utah rankings →About Salt Lake City, UT
Wikipedia →Salt Lake City, often shortened to Salt Lake or SLC, is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Utah. It is the county seat of Salt Lake County, the most populous county in the state. The population was 199,723 at the 2020 census, while the Salt Lake City metropolitan area has an estimated 1.3 million residents and is the 46th-largest metropolitan area in the United States. It is also part of the larger Salt Lake City–Ogden–Provo combined statistical area, an urban corridor along a 120-mile (190 km) segment of the Wasatch Front with a population of approximately 2.8 million. It is one of the principal urban centers within the Great Basin, along with Reno, Nevada.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Salt Lake City's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Salt Lake
Frequently asked questions
Is Salt Lake City, UT tap water safe to drink?
Salt Lake City's water quality earned a grade of F (35.3/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #174 out of 177 cities tested in Utah.
What contaminants are in Salt Lake City's water?
Lead was measured at 1.9 ppb (90th percentile). 5 PFAS compounds were detected. 1338 violations are on record.
How is Salt Lake City'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 Salt Lake City?
PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter is recommended.
Where does Salt Lake City's water come from?
Salt Lake City's water is sourced from Surface water. The city has 9 water systems serving approximately 540,581 residents.
What health violations has Salt Lake City's water system had?
Salt Lake City has 26 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in December 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 52 violations remain unresolved.
Why does Salt Lake City have so many PFAS compounds in its water?
5 different PFAS "forever chemical" compounds were detected in Salt Lake City's water supply during UCMR 5 testing. PFAS contamination often originates from proximity to military installations (AFFF firefighting foam), airports, industrial manufacturing sites, or wastewater treatment facilities. Some levels exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels — a reverse osmosis or NSF-certified activated carbon filter is strongly recommended.
How does Salt Lake City's water compare to other cities?
Salt Lake City ranks #174 out of 177 cities in Utah (better than 2% of state cities) and #15521 out of 15744 cities nationally (1th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.