D34/100
Jackson Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 9,772 residents · Kentucky
What's In Jackson's Tap Water?
34
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021Rule: 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
JACKSON MUNICIPAL WATER WORKS
Population Served
4,704
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
KY0130208
BREATHITT CO WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
5,068
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KY0131012
Frequently Asked Questions About Jackson Water
Is Jackson tap water safe to drink?
Jackson, Kentucky tap water receives a grade of D (34/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 99 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Jackson's water?
34 contaminants were tested in Jackson's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Jackson have any water quality violations?
Yes, Jackson has 99 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MCL, MR, MON. 18 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Jackson?
Jackson 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 Jackson's tap water come from?
Jackson's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by JACKSON MUNICIPAL WATER WORKS and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 9,772 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Jackson'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. Jackson'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 Jackson's water compare to other cities in Kentucky?
Jackson's water quality score of 34/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. 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 Jackson's water quality?
If you have concerns about Jackson'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 (JACKSON MUNICIPAL WATER WORKS) 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.