Is Sierra Vista, AZ Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded D — but Chlorate was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
47/100
waterverge.com Sierra Vista, AZ — Water Quality Report
Sierra Vista's drinking water received a grade of D (47 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 12 water systems serve approximately 50,892 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 3 PFAS compounds in the water supply.
The system has 4776 violations on record, including 44 health-based violations. 160 remain unresolved.
What to know about Sierra Vista's water
Sierra Vista ranks #213 out of 292 cities in Arizona for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Sierra Vista 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.
PFAS compounds were detected in testing, though levels remain within current EPA limits. Residents seeking extra precaution may consider an activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 0.71 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.
The system has seen 253 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Sierra Vista, AZ water safe to drink?
Sierra Vista's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of D (47/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 12 water systems serve approximately 50,892 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Sierra Vista
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Detected at levels within current EPA limits. PFAS persist indefinitely in the environment.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Sierra Vista's water quality assessment. Grade: D (47/100).
Contaminants: Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3241). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Sierra Vista's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Detected but within current EPA limits. PFAS do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time. An activated carbon filter can reduce exposure.
PFAS "forever chemicals" detected
UCMR 5 testing found 3 PFAS compounds in Sierra Vista's water supply. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and the human body.
Violation history
Sierra Vista's water system has 4,776 total violations on record, including 44 health-based violations. 160 remain unresolved. 253 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Cochise County has experienced 4 federally declared disasters since 1970. 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 Ramsey Canyon, Garden Canyon, San Pedro, San Pedro River, Huachuca Canyon.
Where does Sierra Vista's water come from?
Sierra Vista's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 12 water systems serving approximately 50,892 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Ramsey Canyon (river), Garden Canyon (river), San Pedro (river), San Pedro River (river), Huachuca Canyon (river).
What Sierra Vista residents can do
Recommended: Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Sierra Vista'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.
Sierra Vista'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 Sierra Vista
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Sierra Vista, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
U.S.DOD US ARMY FORT HUACHUCA - RANGES FORT HUACHUCA, AZ85613 | — | — | 3.4 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Drought conditions
D1 — moderate droughtCochise County is currently in D1 (moderate 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
Cochise County has experienced 4 federally declared disasters since 1970. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Sierra Vista'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. | 0.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| 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. | 14.200 | 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. | 0.004 | 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 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. | 0.004 | 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)
See how Sierra Vista compares by contaminant
Explore where Sierra Vista ranks among all Arizona cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Sierra Vista's water comes from
Sierra Vista'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 50,892 people through 12 water systems.
Water bodies near Sierra Vista
Sierra Vista is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Sierra Vista
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| BELLA VISTA CITY WATER SYSTEM | AZ0402010 | 20,045 | GW |
| PUEBLO DEL SOL WATER COMPANY | AZ0402044 | 12,804 | GW |
| ARIZONA WATER CO - SIERRA VISTA | AZ0402004 | 9,175 | GW |
| BELLA VISTA WATER SOUTH | AZ0402007 | 2,178 | GW |
| EAST SLOPE WATER COMPANY | AZ0402028 | 1,980 | GW |
| SOUTHLAND UTILITIES - GOLDEN ACRES | AZ0402029 | 1,614 | GW |
| SOUTHERN SUNRISE WC COCHISE HORSESHOE | AZ0402011 | 1,588 | GW |
| EAST SLOPE WATER - WEST | AZ0402094 | 655 | GW |
| SIERRA VISTA MH VILLAGE | AZ0402101 | 328 | GW |
| NORTHERN SUNRISE WC MUSTANG CRYSTAL | AZ0402054 | 315 | GW |
| CLOUD NINE WATER COMPANY | AZ0402009 | 143 | GW |
| SULGER WATER COMPANY 2 | AZ0402120 | 67 | GW |
How Sierra Vista compares
Full Arizona rankings →Sierra Vista's score of 47/100 is on par with the average of 42/100 among major Arizona cities. It outscores 9 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Arizona rankings →Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Sierra Vista's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Cochise
Frequently asked questions
Is Sierra Vista, AZ tap water safe to drink?
Sierra Vista's water quality earned a grade of D (47/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #213 out of 292 cities tested in Arizona.
What contaminants are in Sierra Vista's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 3 PFAS compounds were detected. 4776 violations are on record.
How is Sierra Vista'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 Sierra Vista?
PFAS compounds have been detected. A filter with activated carbon can help reduce exposure.
Where does Sierra Vista's water come from?
Sierra Vista's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 12 water systems serving approximately 50,892 residents.
What health violations has Sierra Vista's water system had?
Sierra Vista has 44 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. 160 violations remain unresolved.
Is Sierra Vista's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Sierra Vista 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 4776 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.
Why does Sierra Vista have so many PFAS compounds in its water?
3 different PFAS "forever chemical" compounds were detected in Sierra Vista'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. While detected, current levels are within EPA limits. An activated carbon filter can further reduce exposure.
How does Sierra Vista's water compare to other cities?
Sierra Vista ranks #213 out of 292 cities in Arizona (better than 27% of state cities) and #13669 out of 15744 cities nationally (13th percentile). The grade of D reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.