Canadian Water Quality Association

This Canadian Environment Week, we’re highlighting the connection between a healthy environment and safe, reliable drinking water.

For millions of Canadians, groundwater is a vital source of drinking water. Protecting our water resources from source to tap supports healthy communities, resilient ecosystems, and long-term environmental sustainability.

From water testing and treatment to ongoing system maintenance, water quality professionals play an important role in helping Canadians access clean, safe drinking water every day.

Every Friday, we’ll be featuring some of our most asked questions about water quality in Canada.

This week's FAQ: I get my water from the city— is it safe to drink?

The short answer: yes. Municipal water in Canada is regulated and treated to meet strict safety standards.

Did you know there’s an easy way to learn more about your local water?
Simply search: “[your city] annual water report”

The latest update on boil water advisories shows progress, but ongoing gaps remain.

As of April 16, 2026:
• 40 active long-term advisories across 37 communities
• Impacting ~5,592 homes and 366 community buildings
• 50% of systems can produce clean water
• 53% require operational improvements before advisories can be lifted

This reflects a key reality:

In many cases, the infrastructure exists, but systems still need support, operations, and resources to consistently deliver safe water. Progress is happening. But there’s more work to do.

🔗 Full update: https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1614387410146/1614387435325