Is Madison Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in Madison, Wisconsin meets all EPA safety standards, regularly tested for contaminants including lead, bacteria, and pesticides. It is considered safe to drink.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

The Madison Water Utility treats water sourced primarily from Lake Mendota using filtration and disinfection processes. This ensures removal of harmful substances.

Residents receive annual water quality reports detailing contaminant levels and safety measures. No recent violations or safety concerns have been reported by local authorities.

Last checked: 2025-06-28

Source of Water in Madison, United States

Madison's tap water primarily comes from surface water sources, mainly Lake Mendota. This lake is the central source for the city's water supply.

The water utility also uses groundwater wells as a supplementary source, particularly during high demand or maintenance of surface water facilities.

These sources undergo rigorous treatment, including filtration and disinfection, to meet safety and quality standards before distribution to residents.

Madison Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Madison are maintained by the city and comply with health and safety regulations. They are regularly cleaned and tested.

Water from these fountains comes from the same treated municipal supply, ensuring it meets all drinking water standards for safety.

Users should report any visible damage or contamination to local authorities, but generally, these fountains are safe for public use.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Madison. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Madison is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.