Is Ottawa Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Ottawa's tap water is sourced primarily from the Ottawa River and treated by the city's water treatment facilities. It meets all provincial and federal drinking water standards.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Regular testing for contaminants like bacteria, lead, and chlorine is conducted to ensure safety. Water quality reports are publicly available annually from the city.

Residents can safely drink Ottawa tap water. Using additional filters is optional and based on personal preference, not a safety requirement.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

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 main tap water source is the Ottawa River, a surface water body supplying the city's water treatment plants.

Groundwater wells supplement the supply in some areas but are a minor source compared to the river.

Water is treated to meet health standards before distribution, ensuring safety and quality for residents.

Ottawa Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Ottawa are maintained by the city and are regularly cleaned to meet health safety standards.

They use treated municipal water, which is safe for consumption, similar to tap water in homes.

Users should ensure fountains appear clean; occasional maintenance issues may temporarily affect cleanliness but not water safety.

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.

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 Ottawa 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.