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Official EPA SDWIS Statewide AnalysisState Water Quality & Testing Directory

District of Columbia Drinking Water Quality & Testing Directory

Comprehensive EPA compliance records, water testing guidelines, and city rankings covering all 286 ZIP codes across District of Columbia

Quick Summary: Is Tap Water Safe in District of Columbia?

Drinking water in District of Columbia receives an average composite safety score of 68.2/100 based on EPA Safe Drinking Water Act records. Approximately 0% of monitored ZIP codes earn an "A" grade. Water sources are 100% surface water and 0% groundwater, resulting in Moderately Soft to Moderate mineral hardness across the state.

Total ZIP Codes

286

Health Violations (5yr)

1,644

Statewide Avg Score

68.2/100

High Lead Risk Areas

5.9%

Overview: Drinking Water in District of Columbia

Drinking water quality in District of Columbia averages a composite safety score of 68.2/100 across its 286 monitored ZIP codes. Approximately 0% of ZIP codes in the state receive an "A" grade, while 0% receive an "F" grade. Environmental standards are enforced by District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority.

Surface Water

100%

of ZIP codes

Total Violations

9,042

5-year record

Grade A ZIPs

0

0% of state

Grade F ZIPs

0

0% of state

Water Quality Grade Distribution in District of Columbia

How do District of Columbia's 286 ZIP codes stack up by water quality grade?

A
0 ZIP codes0%
B
17 ZIP codes6%
C
257 ZIP codes90%
D
12 ZIP codes4%
F
0 ZIP codes0%

Popular Cities in District of Columbia

Click any city to view ZIP code-level water quality reports

City A-Z Directory — District of Columbia

Browse water quality reports for every town and city in District of Columbia.

Common Drinking Water Contaminants in District of Columbia

The following are common regulated contaminants found in District of Columbia drinking water based on EPA violation records. Click any contaminant to learn about EPA safety limits and health effects.

Consumer Confidence Report RuleE. coliHaloacetic Acids (HAA5)

Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Act Maximum Contaminant Level regulations. For the complete list of regulated contaminants and MCLs, see the Water Quality Safety Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions — District of Columbia Drinking Water

Is tap water generally safe to drink in District of Columbia?+
Yes, for the majority of residents, tap water in District of Columbia is treated and regulated. However, compliance varies by city. State-wide, 0 ZIP codes receive an "A" grade, while 0 receive an "F". Search your specific ZIP code to see your local utility's record.
How do I test water quality or well water in District of Columbia?+
Residents in District of Columbia can test their tap or well water by contacting laboratories certified by District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority or ordering an EPA-standard laboratory water testing kit. Annual testing is recommended for private wells to test for bacteria, nitrates, and heavy metals.
What are the biggest water quality issues in District of Columbia?+
The primary issues include managing 1,644 health-based violations state-wide and resolving infrastructure age. 5.9% of ZIP codes in the state have a high probability of lead exposure risk due to pre-1986 piping.
Who regulates and enforces drinking water standards in District of Columbia?+
Drinking water in District of Columbia is regulated by District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority under a primacy agreement with the U.S. EPA.
Where does District of Columbia get its drinking water?+
Approximately 100% of monitored areas in District of Columbia rely on surface water sources (lakes/rivers), while the rest use groundwater aquifers.
How do I find the official water quality report for my home in District of Columbia?+
Search your ZIP code on our site to view data compiled from EPA records, or contact your local utility for their annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR).
View All 286 ZIP Codes in District of Columbia

Browse EPA water quality data for every monitored ZIP code. For faster results, use the search bar above.

All 286 ZIP codes in District of Columbia are actively monitored under the EPA Safe Drinking Water Act.