A boil water order is currently in effect for all residents and businesses within the Cedar City Water System South Pressure Zone between 200 S. and Cedar Knolls. According to a October 23, 2026 statement, the water system detected contamination containing E. coli.
The Southwest Utah Public Health Department Laboratory notified the Cedar City Water System on October 20, 2026, that a sample taken from an outside hose bib at 546 S 450 W tested positive for E. coli. While repeat samples taken on October 21, 2026, at the Quichpa well one, 534 S 450 W 1, 570 S 450 W, and 546 S 450 W all tested negative for E. coli, a sample at 534 S 450 W did test positive for total coliform. Five other water samples taken on October 20, 2026, in the Quichpa well service area tested negative for both E. coli and total coliform.
Corrective actions are underway, including chlorinating and flushing the water system. Officials have already flushed 450 W from 200 S to 600 S and are investigating possible cross-connection issues from illegal secondary water hookups. The city is also increasing coliform bacteria sampling and will work with the Division of Drinking Water to complete a Level 2 Assessment in the coming weeks.
Bacterial contamination can occur due to a failure in the water treatment process, a break in the distribution system pipes, or when homeowners connect untreated secondary irrigation water to the drinking water line, causing cross-connection contamination. Chlorine residuals were detected in the distribution system on the days all samples were collected. Officials noted that the positive sample could result from the handling of water by division personnel or lab personnel transfers.
Ten additional samples are being taken on October 23, 2026, with results expected on October 24, 2026. The city will inform the public once tests show no bacteria and the boil order is no longer required. For the time being, all water used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation must be boiled for one minute and allowed to cool, or replaced with bottled water.
