B64/100
Florence Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 106,542 residents · Alabama
What's In Florence's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
3
Above EPA Goals
5 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.017 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.010 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 390.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
1,4-dioxane | 0.930 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025Verify 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
WEST LAUDERDALE CO WATER & FPA
Population Served
15,681
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0000794
CHISHOLM HEIGHTS WATER & F P AUTHORITY
Population Served
4,881
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0000777
FLORENCE, WATER DEPARTMENT, CITY OF
Population Served
77,766
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AL0000783
GREENHILL WATER & FIRE PRO AUTHORITY
Population Served
8,214
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0001423
Frequently Asked Questions About Florence Water
Is Florence tap water safe to drink?
Florence, Alabama tap water receives a grade of B (64/100), which is considered good. Out of 73 contaminants tested, 3 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 6 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Florence's water?
Of the 73 contaminants tested in Florence's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, Copper (90th percentile), PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 6 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Florence have any water quality violations?
Yes, Florence has 32 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, RPT. 7 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Florence?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Florence is recommended. 3 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 Florence's tap water come from?
Florence's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by WEST LAUDERDALE CO WATER & FPA and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 106,542 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Florence'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. Florence'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 Florence's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Florence's water quality score of 64/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Alabama state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Florence's water quality?
If you have concerns about Florence'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 (WEST LAUDERDALE CO WATER & FPA) 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.