A83/100
Waycross Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 32,014 residents · Georgia
What's In Waycross's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
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
Failed to conduct Level 1 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 26, 2023 – October 17, 2023Rule: Consumer Confidence 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
SATILLA REGIONAL WATER & SEWER AUTH.
Population Served
10,657
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
GA2990001
WAYCROSS
Population Served
15,987
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
GA2990002
WAYCROSS-WARE COUNTY IND. PARK
Population Served
1,716
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
GA2990019
SATILLA REGIONAL WATER & SEWER AUTH-EAST
Population Served
3,654
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
GA2990051
Frequently Asked Questions About Waycross Water
Is Waycross tap water safe to drink?
Waycross, Georgia tap water receives a grade of A (83/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 66 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 Waycross's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Waycross's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). 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 Waycross have any water quality violations?
Yes, Waycross has 51 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, Other, MR. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Waycross?
Waycross 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 Waycross's tap water come from?
Waycross's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SATILLA REGIONAL WATER & SEWER AUTH. and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 32,014 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Waycross'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. Waycross'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 Waycross's water compare to other cities in Georgia?
Waycross's water quality score of 83/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Waycross among the better-performing water systems in Georgia. Visit our Georgia state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Waycross's water quality?
If you have concerns about Waycross'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 (SATILLA REGIONAL WATER & SEWER AUTH.) 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.