B68/100
Carbondale Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 27,630 residents · Illinois
What's In Carbondale's Tap Water?
69
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
5
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: August 27, 2024 – August 30, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: 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: July 1, 2024 – September 10, 2024Rule: Stage 1 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: July 1, 2024 – September 10, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment Technique Violation
When: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment Technique Violation
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 1 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
CARBONDALE
Population Served
22,107
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
IL0770150
LAKESIDE PWD
Population Served
3,065
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0775150
BUNCOMBE WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
1,030
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0775420
DEVILS KITCHEN WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
1,428
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1995160
Frequently Asked Questions About Carbondale Water
Is Carbondale tap water safe to drink?
Carbondale, Illinois tap water receives a grade of B (68/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 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 Carbondale's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Carbondale'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 Carbondale have any water quality violations?
Yes, Carbondale has 55 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MON, Other. 17 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Carbondale?
Carbondale 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 Carbondale's tap water come from?
Carbondale's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by CARBONDALE and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 27,630 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Carbondale'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. Carbondale'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 Carbondale's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Carbondale's water quality score of 68/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Carbondale's water quality?
If you have concerns about Carbondale'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 (CARBONDALE) 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.