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WaterSafeCheck

Detroit Lakes, MN Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 2 ZIP codes in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

Average Score

43/100

Health Violations

20

ZIP Codes

2

High Lead Risk

1

of 2 ZIP codes

D

About Tap Water in Detroit Lakes, MN

Tap water quality in Detroit Lakes, MN is a significant concern, currently receiving a below-average safety score of 43/100 across 2 ZIP codes. With 20 health-based violations recorded in the past 5 years, systems like Detroit Lakes have struggled to maintain compliance with EPA regulations enforced by Minnesota Department of Health. Residents are strongly encouraged to utilize certified water filtration systems.

The accumulation of 20 health-based violations over the past 5 years highlights systemic challenges within Detroit Lakes's water infrastructure. When violations occur, it means that drinking water tests revealed contaminant levels exceeding safe limits, triggering mandatory corrective actions by Minnesota Department of Health. The city relies on ground water, which may require significant treatment upgrades to address these recurring issues.

Additionally, lead exposure risk remains a critical issue for certain neighborhoods. EPA data indicates that 1 out of 2 ZIP codes in Detroit Lakes 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 Detroit Lakes 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 Detroit Lakes

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

Lead

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 — Detroit Lakes, MN

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

D
56502

Detroit Lakes, MN

Score: 45/10010 violations
D
56501

Detroit Lakes, MN

Score: 40/10010 violations

Frequently Asked Questions — Detroit Lakes Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Detroit Lakes, MN?+
Tap water in Detroit Lakes has a grade of D, indicating compliance concerns in recent years. Families with young children or pregnant women should consider using a certified NSF/ANSI 53 water filter for drinking and cooking.
What is the water quality score for Detroit Lakes?+
The average water quality score across 2 ZIP codes in Detroit Lakes, MN is 43/100. 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 Detroit Lakes have lead in its tap water?+
1 out of 2 ZIP codes in Detroit Lakes 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 Detroit Lakes?+
Each ZIP code in Detroit Lakes 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 Detroit Lakes's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Detroit Lakes, MN primarily comes from ground water. Groundwater systems pump water from underground aquifers, which is naturally filtered through soil and rock but can still contain naturally occurring contaminants.

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