B64/100
Atlanta Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,091,203 residents · Georgia
What's In Atlanta's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 280.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2024 – August 15, 2024Enforcement: 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
ST. JOHNS LANDING APARTMENTS
Population Served
1,310
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
FL2100709
ATLANTA
Population Served
1,089,893
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
GA1210001
Frequently Asked Questions About Atlanta Water
Is Atlanta tap water safe to drink?
Atlanta, Georgia tap water receives a grade of B (64/100), which is considered good. Out of 76 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Atlanta's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Atlanta'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 Atlanta have any water quality violations?
Yes, Atlanta has 27 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MCL, MR. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Atlanta?
Atlanta 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 Atlanta's tap water come from?
Atlanta's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ST. JOHNS LANDING APARTMENTS and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 1,091,203 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Atlanta'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. Atlanta'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 Atlanta's water compare to other cities in Georgia?
Atlanta's water quality score of 64/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Georgia state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Atlanta's water quality?
If you have concerns about Atlanta'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 (ST. JOHNS LANDING APARTMENTS) 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.