A90/100
Tuscaloosa Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 182,331 residents · Alabama
What's In Tuscaloosa's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 890.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
2
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.
When: July 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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.
When: July 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Violation related to Nitrate
When: August 1, 2023 – August 31, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: 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 2 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 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2022 – March 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 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
ENGLEWOOD-HULLS WATER SYSTEM, INC.
Population Served
7,077
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0001301
MITCHELL WATER SYSTEM INC
Population Served
8,730
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0001306
TUSCALOOSA WATER & SEWER
Population Served
166,524
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AL0001313
Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscaloosa Water
Is Tuscaloosa tap water safe to drink?
Tuscaloosa, Alabama tap water receives a grade of A (90/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 76 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 Tuscaloosa's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Tuscaloosa's water supply, the most notable include chlorate. 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 Tuscaloosa have any water quality violations?
Yes, Tuscaloosa has 15 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, TT, MCL. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Tuscaloosa?
Tuscaloosa 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 Tuscaloosa's tap water come from?
Tuscaloosa's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by ENGLEWOOD-HULLS WATER SYSTEM, INC. and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 182,331 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Tuscaloosa'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. Tuscaloosa'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 Tuscaloosa's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Tuscaloosa's water quality score of 90/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Tuscaloosa 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 Tuscaloosa's water quality?
If you have concerns about Tuscaloosa'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 (ENGLEWOOD-HULLS WATER SYSTEM, INC.) 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.