C42/100
Douglas Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 16,632 residents · Alabama
What's In Douglas's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 360.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 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.
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.
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
DOUGLAS WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
16,632
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AL0000940
Frequently Asked Questions About Douglas Water
Is Douglas tap water safe to drink?
Douglas, Alabama tap water receives a grade of C (42/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 48 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Douglas's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Douglas's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Douglas have any water quality violations?
Yes, Douglas has 48 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Douglas?
Douglas 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. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Douglas's tap water come from?
Douglas's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by DOUGLAS WATER AUTHORITY. The system serves approximately 16,632 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Douglas'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. Douglas'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 Douglas's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Douglas's water quality score of 42/100 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 Douglas's water quality?
If you have concerns about Douglas'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 (DOUGLAS WATER AUTHORITY) 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.