D37/100
Clayton Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,064 residents · Alabama
What's In Clayton's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.81 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2023 – December 9, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Consumer confidence report — inadequate or unavailable
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2021 – November 24, 2021Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
CLAYTON WATER WORKS & SEWER
Population Served
2,064
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AL0000082
Frequently Asked Questions About Clayton Water
Is Clayton tap water safe to drink?
Clayton, Alabama tap water receives a grade of D (37/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 36 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Clayton's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Clayton's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Clayton have any water quality violations?
Yes, Clayton has 36 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Clayton?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Clayton is recommended. 1 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Clayton's tap water come from?
Clayton's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CLAYTON WATER WORKS & SEWER. The system serves approximately 2,064 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Clayton's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Clayton's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Clayton's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Clayton's water quality score of 37/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Alabama state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Clayton's water quality?
If you have concerns about Clayton's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (CLAYTON WATER WORKS & SEWER) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.