D38/100
Lancaster Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 19,379 residents · Kentucky
What's In Lancaster's Tap Water?
69
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: August 1, 2022 – August 31, 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
GARRARD CO WATER ASSOC INC
Population Served
14,806
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KY0400151
LANCASTER WATER WORKS
Population Served
4,573
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
KY0400233
Frequently Asked Questions About Lancaster Water
Is Lancaster tap water safe to drink?
Lancaster, Kentucky tap water receives a grade of D (38/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 92 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Lancaster's water?
69 contaminants were tested in Lancaster's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Lancaster have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lancaster has 92 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MON, MR, Other. 13 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lancaster?
Lancaster 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 Lancaster's tap water come from?
Lancaster's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by GARRARD CO WATER ASSOC INC and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 19,379 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Lancaster'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. Lancaster'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 Lancaster's water compare to other cities in Kentucky?
Lancaster's water quality score of 38/100 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 Lancaster's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lancaster'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 (GARRARD CO WATER ASSOC INC) 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.