Is Spokane Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Yes, tap water in Spokane, Washington, is generally safe to drink. The city’s drinking water comes primarily from the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer and is routinely tested to meet state and federal health standards.
Water quality can vary in older buildings because plumbing may contain lead or other metals. If the water has been stagnant for several hours, run the cold tap briefly before drinking, especially in homes built before 1986.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
United States is ranked as number 15 globally with a score of 96.2% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Spokane, United States
Spokane’s tap water comes from the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, an underground water supply beneath Spokane County and parts of northern Idaho. The city draws this groundwater through a network of municipal wells.
The aquifer is naturally replenished by rainfall, snowmelt, and seepage from nearby lakes, rivers, and streams. Spokane treats the water and disinfects it before delivering it through the city’s water system.
Spokane Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Spokane are generally safe to use when they are connected to the municipal water system, properly maintained, and operating normally. Spokane’s public water supply is treated and tested to meet federal and Washington State drinking water standards.
Avoid fountains that are marked out of service, damaged, visibly dirty, or have discolored or unusual-smelling water. 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 Spokane. 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.