D33/100
Atlanta Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,692 residents · Illinois
What's In Atlanta's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.46 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
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: October 1, 2022 – December 31, 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: October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – July 6, 2021Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Public notification violation
When: July 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
ATLANTA
Population Served
1,692
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IL1070050
Frequently Asked Questions About Atlanta Water
Is Atlanta tap water safe to drink?
Atlanta, Illinois tap water receives a grade of D (33/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 24 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Atlanta's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Atlanta's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 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 24 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MR, Other, TT. 8 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Atlanta?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Atlanta 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 Atlanta's tap water come from?
Atlanta's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ATLANTA. The system serves approximately 1,692 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 Illinois?
Atlanta's water quality score of 33/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Illinois 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 (ATLANTA) 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.