A91/100
Columbus Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 59,774 residents · Indiana
What's In Columbus's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
1,4-dioxane | 0.980 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2012.
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
COLUMBUS MUNICIPAL UTILITY
Population Served
51,122
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IN5203002
SOUTHWESTERN BARTHOLOMEW WATER CORP.
Population Served
8,652
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
IN5203008
Frequently Asked Questions About Columbus Water
Is Columbus tap water safe to drink?
Columbus, Indiana tap water receives a grade of A (91/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 66 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 Columbus's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Columbus's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), 1,4-dioxane. 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 Columbus have any water quality violations?
Yes, Columbus has 8 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include Other, RPT, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Columbus?
Columbus 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 Columbus's tap water come from?
Columbus's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by COLUMBUS MUNICIPAL UTILITY and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 59,774 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Columbus'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. Columbus'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 Columbus's water compare to other cities in Indiana?
Columbus's water quality score of 91/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Columbus among the better-performing water systems in Indiana. Visit our Indiana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Columbus's water quality?
If you have concerns about Columbus'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 (COLUMBUS MUNICIPAL UTILITY) 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.