A84/100
Oxford Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 29,556 residents · Alabama
What's In Oxford's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: July 11, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (single sample)
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Revised Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: 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
OXFORD WATER WORKS & SEWER BOARD
Population Served
29,556
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AL0000162
Frequently Asked Questions About Oxford Water
Is Oxford tap water safe to drink?
Oxford, Alabama tap water receives a grade of A (84/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Oxford's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Oxford'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 Oxford have any water quality violations?
Yes, Oxford has 5 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MCL, MR. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Oxford?
Oxford 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 Oxford's tap water come from?
Oxford's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by OXFORD WATER WORKS & SEWER BOARD. The system serves approximately 29,556 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Oxford'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. Oxford'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 Oxford's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Oxford's water quality score of 84/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Oxford among the better-performing water systems in Alabama. Visit our Alabama state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Oxford's water quality?
If you have concerns about Oxford'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 (OXFORD WATER WORKS & SEWER BOARD) 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.