A94/100
Story City Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,357 residents · Iowa
What's In Story City's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: February 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022Rule: Total Coliform 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
STORY CITY WATER DEPT
Population Served
3,357
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IA8584000
Frequently Asked Questions About Story City Water
Is Story City tap water safe to drink?
Story City, Iowa tap water receives a grade of A (94/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Story City's water?
31 contaminants were tested in Story City's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Story City have any water quality violations?
Yes, Story City has 6 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, MON. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Story City?
Story City 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Story City's tap water come from?
Story City's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by STORY CITY WATER DEPT. The system serves approximately 3,357 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Story City'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. Story City'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 Story City's water compare to other cities in Iowa?
Story City's water quality score of 94/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Story City among the better-performing water systems in Iowa. Visit our Iowa state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Story City's water quality?
If you have concerns about Story City'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 (STORY CITY WATER DEPT) 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.