C46/100
Tuscumbia Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 37,317 residents · Alabama
What's In Tuscumbia's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: August 11, 2022 – August 29, 2022Rule: 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
SPRING VALLEY WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
5,487
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0000329
TUSCUMBIA WATER WORKS
Population Served
14,400
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AL0000331
COLBERT COUNTY RURAL WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
13,395
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AL0000314
HAWK PRIDE MT WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
4,035
Water Source
Groundwater Under Influence of Surface Water
System ID
AL0000316
Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscumbia Water
Is Tuscumbia tap water safe to drink?
Tuscumbia, Alabama tap water receives a grade of C (46/100), which is considered fair. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 97 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Tuscumbia's water?
Of the 73 contaminants tested in Tuscumbia's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 5 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Tuscumbia have any water quality violations?
Yes, Tuscumbia has 97 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include RPT, MR, MCL. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Tuscumbia?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Tuscumbia 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 Tuscumbia's tap water come from?
Tuscumbia's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by SPRING VALLEY WATER AUTHORITY and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 37,317 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Tuscumbia'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. Tuscumbia'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 Tuscumbia's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Tuscumbia's water quality score of 46/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Alabama state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Tuscumbia's water quality?
If you have concerns about Tuscumbia'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 (SPRING VALLEY WATER AUTHORITY) 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.