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WaterSafeCheck

Amherst, MA Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 3 ZIP codes in Amherst, Massachusetts

Average Score

73/100

Health Violations

3

ZIP Codes

3

High Lead Risk

2

of 3 ZIP codes

B

About Tap Water in Amherst, MA

The drinking water in Amherst, MA generally meets all federal health standards, earning a solid B grade with a composite safety score of 73/100 across 3 ZIP codes. While the primary water utility, Amherst Dpw Water Division, maintains adequate compliance with EPA regulations, there have been minor or administrative violations on record. Overall, residents receive safe tap water that is actively monitored by Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.

Over the past 5 years, Amherst has recorded 3 health-based violations. While occasional violations can occur due to seasonal changes or temporary infrastructure issues, Amherst Dpw Water Division is legally required to resolve these quickly and notify the public via their annual Consumer Confidence Report. The city's water supply, primarily drawn from surface water, is treated to address these specific contaminants.

Additionally, lead exposure risk remains a critical issue for certain neighborhoods. EPA data indicates that 2 out of 3 ZIP codes in Amherst are rated as High or Very High risk for lead. This risk is often driven by aging homes with pre-1986 plumbing containing lead solder or service lines. Families in these areas should test their tap water and consider NSF/ANSI 53 certified filters.

⚠ Lead Risk Alert: Some ZIP codes in Amherst are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk based on EPA data. Search your specific ZIP code for a detailed lead level report.

Health-Based Contaminant Violations in Amherst

EPA records indicate that the following contaminants have exceeded Safe Drinking Water Act Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) in Amherst water systems over the past 5 years.

E. coli

Note: The presence of a past violation does not necessarily mean current water is unsafe. Utilities are required to take corrective action. Review your Consumer Confidence Report for the latest status.

Water Quality by ZIP Code — Amherst, MA

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

B
01002

Amherst, MA

Score: 75/1001 violation
B
01003

Amherst, MA

Score: 72/1001 violation
B
01004

Amherst, MA

Score: 72/1001 violation

Frequently Asked Questions — Amherst Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Amherst, MA?+
Yes — tap water in Amherst meets all federal EPA standards and earns a B grade. It is generally safe for healthy adults. As always, running your tap for 30 seconds before use and using a filter adds extra protection for vulnerable populations.
What is the water quality score for Amherst?+
The average water quality score across 3 ZIP codes in Amherst, MA is 73/100. Scores are derived from EPA violation history, lead levels, enforcement actions, and infrastructure risk indicators. Individual ZIP codes may vary — search your specific ZIP above for a personalized report.
Does Amherst have lead in its tap water?+
2 out of 3 ZIP codes in Amherst are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk. Older homes built before 1986 may have lead service lines or plumbing fixtures. Residents should run their tap for 30 seconds before use and consider a certified NSF/ANSI 53 lead filter.
How do I get the water quality report for Amherst?+
Each ZIP code in Amherst has a full water quality report on this site — click any ZIP code below. You can also get the annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your local water utility. The CCR is required to be published every year by July 1 and contains actual contaminant measurements and violation history.
Where does Amherst's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Amherst, MA primarily comes from surface water. Surface water systems treat water from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs using filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection before it reaches your tap.

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