Is Portland Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Portland, Oregon’s tap water is sourced primarily from the Bull Run Watershed, known for its high-quality, protected source. The water meets or exceeds all EPA standards.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

The Portland Water Bureau regularly tests for contaminants such as lead, bacteria, and chemicals. Results consistently show levels well within safe limits for drinking.

Boil advisories or warnings are rare and typically issued only during specific events like main breaks. Overall, Portland’s tap water is considered safe for consumption.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

United States is ranked as number 9 globally with a score of 96.4% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Portland, United States

Portland's primary tap water source is the Bull Run Watershed, a protected forest area providing high-quality mountain water.

Additionally, Portland supplements supply from wells tapping into the Columbia South Shore Well Field during peak demand or emergencies.

The city maintains strict protection measures and regular monitoring to ensure water quality from these sources meets health standards.

Portland Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Portland receive water from the city’s treated supply, which meets all federal and state safety standards.

Regular maintenance and cleaning schedules help ensure fountains remain hygienic and safe for public use.

Users should consider personal hygiene and avoid direct mouth contact to reduce contamination risk, but the water itself is safe to drink.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Portland. 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 Portland 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.