Is Toronto Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Toronto tap water meets Ontario's stringent drinking water standards, routinely tested for contaminants like bacteria, lead, and chlorine. It is generally safe to drink.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

The city sources water from Lake Ontario, treating it at advanced facilities using filtration, disinfection, and monitoring to ensure quality and safety.

Residents are advised to flush taps if water has been stagnant, but otherwise, Toronto tap water is considered clean and potable for everyday use.

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 Toronto, Canada

Toronto's primary tap water source is Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes, providing a large, consistent freshwater supply.

Water is drawn from intakes located offshore to minimize contamination and protect water quality before treatment.

Additional sources include groundwater wells, but they contribute minimally compared to the dominant Lake Ontario supply.

Toronto Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Toronto receive treated water from the municipal supply, which meets safety and quality standards.

Fountains are regularly maintained and cleaned to prevent contamination, ensuring water remains safe for public consumption.

Users should exercise caution during maintenance or if a fountain appears visibly dirty, but generally, they are safe to use.

Drinking Water Map

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