D35/100
Madison Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 61,161 residents · Alabama
What's In Madison's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 361.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: July 1, 2024 – August 12, 2024Rule: Stage 1 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: January 1, 2024 – February 12, 2024Rule: Stage 1 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: October 1, 2022 – November 22, 2022Rule: Stage 1 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: April 1, 2022 – June 30, 2022Rule: Stage 1 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
MADISON, THE W & WW BOARD OF THE CITY OF
Population Served
54,114
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AL0000885
TRIANA WATER WORKS
Population Served
7,047
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0000905
Frequently Asked Questions About Madison Water
Is Madison tap water safe to drink?
Madison, Alabama tap water receives a grade of D (35/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 107 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Madison's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Madison'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 Madison have any water quality violations?
Yes, Madison has 107 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. 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 Madison?
Madison 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 Madison's tap water come from?
Madison's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by MADISON, THE W & WW BOARD OF THE CITY OF and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 61,161 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Madison'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. Madison'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 Madison's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Madison's water quality score of 35/100 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 Madison's water quality?
If you have concerns about Madison'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 (MADISON, THE W & WW BOARD OF THE 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.