C41/100
Dothan Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 102,048 residents · Alabama
What's In Dothan's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
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: January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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: January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
DOTHAN UTILITIES, CITY OF
Population Served
97,146
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AL0000681
HOUSTON COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
4,902
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AL0001755
Frequently Asked Questions About Dothan Water
Is Dothan tap water safe to drink?
Dothan, Alabama tap water receives a grade of C (41/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 142 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Dothan's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Dothan's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Dothan have any water quality violations?
Yes, Dothan has 142 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, RPT, MON. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Dothan?
Dothan water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Dothan's tap water come from?
Dothan's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by DOTHAN UTILITIES, CITY OF and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 102,048 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Dothan'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. Dothan'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 Dothan's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Dothan's water quality score of 41/100 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 Dothan's water quality?
If you have concerns about Dothan'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 (DOTHAN UTILITIES, CITY OF) 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.