Is Seattle Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Seattle tap water comes from protected mountain watersheds, primarily the Cedar and Tolt Rivers. It meets or exceeds all federal and state drinking water standards.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

The Seattle Public Utilities routinely tests for contaminants, including bacteria, lead, and pesticides. Results consistently show safe levels well below EPA limits.

Customers receive annual water quality reports confirming safety. Drinking Seattle tap water is considered safe and healthy based on current verified data.

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 Seattle, United States

Seattle's main tap water sources are the Cedar River Watershed and the Tolt River Watershed. These protected areas are located east of the city.

The watersheds provide high-quality surface water, naturally filtered by forest ecosystems and reservoirs before treatment. This supports Seattle’s clean water supply.

Water undergoes standard treatment, including filtration and disinfection, to ensure safety. These sources supply about 99% of Seattle’s drinking water.

Seattle Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Seattle receive water from the city’s treated supply, meeting federal and state safety standards. They are regularly maintained.

Routine testing confirms water quality remains consistent and safe at public fountains. Sanitation and mechanical upkeep support safe use.

Users should follow standard hygiene practices when using fountains. Overall, public drinking fountains in Seattle are considered safe for consumption.

Drinking Water Map

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