Skip to main content
WaterSafeCheck

Ketchikan, AK Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 2 ZIP codes in Ketchikan, Alaska

Average Score

66/100

Health Violations

8

ZIP Codes

2

High Lead Risk

1

of 2 ZIP codes

C

About Tap Water in Ketchikan, AK

Water quality in Ketchikan, AK is currently rated with a moderate C grade (average score: 66/100 across 2 ZIP codes). This rating indicates that while the water provided by Ketchikan Public Utilities is treated and regulated, there have been notable compliance issues or contaminant detections recently. Residents should stay informed about the specific challenges affecting their local supply.

The accumulation of 8 health-based violations over the past 5 years highlights systemic challenges within Ketchikan's water infrastructure. When violations occur, it means that drinking water tests revealed contaminant levels exceeding safe limits, triggering mandatory corrective actions by Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. The city relies on surface 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 Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan

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

E. coliTotal Trihalomethanes (TTHM)

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 — Ketchikan, AK

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

C
99950

Ketchikan, AK

Score: 67/1004 violations
C
99901

Ketchikan, AK

Score: 65/1004 violations

Frequently Asked Questions — Ketchikan Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Ketchikan, AK?+
Tap water in Ketchikan has a grade of C, 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 Ketchikan?+
The average water quality score across 2 ZIP codes in Ketchikan, AK is 66/100. 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 Ketchikan have lead in its tap water?+
1 out of 2 ZIP codes in Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?+
Each ZIP code in Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Ketchikan, AK 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.

Looking for water quality in other cities in Alaska?

View All Cities in Alaska →