F0/100
Catlettsburg Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 13,044 residents · Kentucky
What's In Catlettsburg's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
HFPO-DA | 0.025 µg/L | 0.010 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 290.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
4
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2025 – March 31, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 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
BIG SANDY WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
13,044
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KY0100944
Frequently Asked Questions About Catlettsburg Water
Is Catlettsburg tap water safe to drink?
Catlettsburg, Kentucky tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 49 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Catlettsburg's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Catlettsburg's water supply, the most notable include HFPO-DA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Catlettsburg have any water quality violations?
Yes, Catlettsburg has 49 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MCL, MR, Other. 24 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Catlettsburg?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Catlettsburg 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 Catlettsburg's tap water come from?
Catlettsburg's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by BIG SANDY WATER DISTRICT. The system serves approximately 13,044 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Catlettsburg'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. Catlettsburg'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 Catlettsburg's water compare to other cities in Kentucky?
Catlettsburg's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Kentucky state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Catlettsburg's water quality?
If you have concerns about Catlettsburg'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 (BIG SANDY 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.