Is Utica, MI Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B+, with 3 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
82.9/100
waterverge.com Utica, MI — Water Quality Report
Utica's drinking water received a grade of B+ (82.9 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 5,059 residents using purchased surface water.
Lead levels were measured at 1.7 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 1 PFAS compound in the water supply.
The system has 3 violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 3 remain unresolved.
What to know about Utica's water
Utica ranks #308 out of 520 cities in Michigan for water quality, placing it below average 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.
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.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Utica, MI water safe to drink?
Utica's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B+ (82.9/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 5,059 residents using surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
Recent water quality updates for Utica
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 Utica's water quality assessment. Grade: B+ (82.9/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4757). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Utica'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.
Violation history
Utica's water system has 3 total violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 3 remain unresolved. 3 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Macomb County has experienced 7 federally declared disasters since 1972. 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 Clinton River, Red Run, Plum Brook, N Branch Clinton R, North Branch Clinton River.
Where does Utica's water come from?
Utica's drinking water comes from surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 5,059 people. Surface water sources are more susceptible to contamination from runoff, industrial discharge, and algal blooms, requiring extensive treatment. Nearby water bodies include Clinton River (river), Red Run (river), Plum Brook (river), N Branch Clinton R (river), North Branch Clinton River (river).
What Utica residents can do
Recommended: Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Utica'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.
Utica'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 Utica
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Utica, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 29 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
DETROIT COATING LLC MADISON HEIGHTS, MI48071 | Zinc compounds | 15 | 7.4 mi |
A.G. SIMPSON (USA) INC. STERLING HEIGHTS, MI48312 | Nickel And Nickel Compounds | 8 | 6.0 mi |
SELFRIDGE PLATING INC. HARRISON TOWNSHIP, MI48045 | Cyanide compounds | 3 | 8.9 mi |
MPT STERLING HEIGHTS STERLING HEIGHTS, MI48312 | Manganese | 2 | 6.5 mi |
VEHMA INTERNATIONAL TROY, MI48083 | Copper | 0 | 7.1 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Utica
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.
- LIQUID DISPOSAL INC3.1 mi
- G H LANDFILL3.7 mi
- J L LANDFILL4.1 mi
- SOUTH MACOMB DISPOSAL AUTHORITY LANDFILLS 9 AND 9A6.9 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Flood & disaster history
Macomb County has experienced 7 federally declared disasters since 1972. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Utica'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. | 1.7 | 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | 0.005 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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 Utica compares by contaminant
Explore where Utica ranks among all Michigan cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Utica's water comes from
Utica'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 5,059 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Utica
Utica 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 Utica
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| UTICA, CITY OF | MI0006760 | 5,059 | SWP |
How Utica compares
Full Michigan rankings →Utica's score of 82.9/100 is above the average of 70/100 among major Michigan cities. It outscores 5 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Michigan rankings →About Utica, MI
Wikipedia →Utica is a city in Macomb County in the U.S. state of Michigan. Its population was 5,245 at the 2020 census, up from 4,757 in 2010.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Utica's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Macomb
Frequently asked questions
Is Utica, MI tap water safe to drink?
Utica's water quality earned a grade of B+ (82.9/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #308 out of 520 cities tested in Michigan.
What contaminants are in Utica's water?
Lead was measured at 1.7 ppb (90th percentile). 1 PFAS compound was detected. 3 violations are on record.
How is Utica'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 Utica?
PFAS compounds have been detected. A filter with activated carbon can help reduce exposure.
Where does Utica's water come from?
Utica's water is sourced from Purchased surface water. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 5,059 residents.
How does Utica's water compare to other cities?
Utica ranks #308 out of 520 cities in Michigan (better than 41% of state cities) and #6683 out of 15744 cities nationally (58th percentile). The grade of B+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.