Is Ottawa Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Yes, tap water in Ottawa, Ontario, is safe to drink. The city treats and regularly tests its water to meet Ontario’s strict drinking-water standards.
Ottawa tap water may sometimes have a mild chlorine taste or odor, which is normal and indicates disinfection. Follow any temporary boil-water advisories issued by the city, especially after a water-main break or service interruption.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
Canada is ranked as number 12 globally with a score of 94.7% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Ottawa, Canada
Ottawa’s tap water comes from the Ottawa River. The city draws river water at the Britannia and Lemieux Island water purification plants.
The water is treated, tested, and disinfected at these facilities before entering the municipal distribution system. It then flows through underground pipes to homes and businesses across Ottawa.
Ottawa Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Ottawa are generally safe to use because they are supplied by treated municipal drinking water that meets Ontario health standards. The city routinely tests its water supply and maintains public fountains during the operating season.
Do not use a fountain that is visibly dirty, damaged, or marked as out of service, and follow any local drinking water advisories. Let the water run briefly before drinking, especially if the fountain has not been used recently.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Ottawa. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
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.