C44/100
Cleveland Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 32,133 residents · Alabama
What's In Cleveland's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Maximum Contaminant Level Violation
When: February 1, 2024 – February 29, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 8, 2021 – September 12, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 8, 2021 – September 12, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
CLEVELAND WATER WORKS
Population Served
3,516
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0000101
PINE BLUFF WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
6,255
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0000104
NECTAR, TOWN OF
Population Served
3,288
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0000122
BLOUNT COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
19,074
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AL0001783
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleveland Water
Is Cleveland tap water safe to drink?
Cleveland, Alabama tap water receives a grade of C (44/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 187 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Cleveland's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Cleveland'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 Cleveland have any water quality violations?
Yes, Cleveland has 187 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MCL, MR, MON. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Cleveland?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Cleveland 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 Cleveland's tap water come from?
Cleveland's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CLEVELAND WATER WORKS and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 32,133 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Cleveland'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. Cleveland'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 Cleveland's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Cleveland's water quality score of 44/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Alabama state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Cleveland's water quality?
If you have concerns about Cleveland'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 (CLEVELAND WATER WORKS) 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.