B65/100
Jefferson Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 46,291 residents · Georgia
What's In Jefferson's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 215.50 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
1,4-dioxane | 0.389 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2022 – September 30, 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
JEFFERSON
Population Served
12,690
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
GA1570003
JACKSON COUNTY WATER & SEWER AUTHORITY
Population Served
33,601
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
GA1570117
Frequently Asked Questions About Jefferson Water
Is Jefferson tap water safe to drink?
Jefferson, Georgia tap water receives a grade of B (65/100), which is considered good. Out of 70 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 Jefferson's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Jefferson's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), chlorate, 1,4-dioxane. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Jefferson have any water quality violations?
Yes, Jefferson has 31 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MCL, MR. 6 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Jefferson?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Jefferson is recommended. 1 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 Jefferson's tap water come from?
Jefferson's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by JEFFERSON and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 46,291 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Jefferson'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. Jefferson'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 Jefferson's water compare to other cities in Georgia?
Jefferson's water quality score of 65/100 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 Jefferson's water quality?
If you have concerns about Jefferson'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 (JEFFERSON) 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.