B74/100
Charleston Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 26,536 residents · Illinois
What's In Charleston'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 | 1202.82 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
3
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: September 1, 2025 – September 8, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
TIER 2Unresolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
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, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: 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
EMBARRAS AREA WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
3,750
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
IL0290020
CHARLESTON
Population Served
17,286
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
IL0290100
EASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
Population Served
5,500
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0295500
Frequently Asked Questions About Charleston Water
Is Charleston tap water safe to drink?
Charleston, Illinois tap water receives a grade of B (74/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 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 Charleston's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Charleston'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 Charleston have any water quality violations?
Yes, Charleston has 29 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, MON. 10 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Charleston?
Charleston 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 Charleston's tap water come from?
Charleston's drinking water is sourced from purchased groundwater and supplied by EMBARRAS AREA WATER DISTRICT and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 26,536 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Charleston'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. Charleston'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 Charleston's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Charleston's water quality score of 74/100 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 Charleston's water quality?
If you have concerns about Charleston'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 (EMBARRAS AREA WATER DISTRICT) 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.