B62/100
Sterrett Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 43,254 residents · Alabama
What's In Sterrett's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
4 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.024 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.022 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 560.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2006.
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
STERRETT-VANDIVER WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
3,153
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0001164
SHELBY COUNTY COMMISSION-WATER SERVICES
Population Served
40,101
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AL0001671
Frequently Asked Questions About Sterrett Water
Is Sterrett tap water safe to drink?
Sterrett, Alabama tap water receives a grade of B (62/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 4 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 Sterrett's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Sterrett's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, PFOS, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Sterrett have any water quality violations?
Yes, Sterrett has 14 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2019. Violation types include MON, Other, MR. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Sterrett?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Sterrett is recommended. 2 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 Sterrett's tap water come from?
Sterrett's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by STERRETT-VANDIVER WATER SYSTEM and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 43,254 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Sterrett'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. Sterrett'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 Sterrett's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Sterrett's water quality score of 62/100 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 Sterrett's water quality?
If you have concerns about Sterrett'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 (STERRETT-VANDIVER WATER SYSTEM) 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.