B63/100
Richmond Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 66,700 residents · Kentucky
What's In Richmond's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – March 14, 2025Rule: Ground Water 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
MADISON CO UTILITIES DISTRICT
Population Served
25,120
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KY0760224
RICHMOND UTILITIES
Population Served
35,640
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
KY0760370
KIRKSVILLE WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
5,940
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KY0760672
Frequently Asked Questions About Richmond Water
Is Richmond tap water safe to drink?
Richmond, Kentucky tap water receives a grade of B (63/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Richmond's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Richmond's water supply, the most notable include chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Richmond have any water quality violations?
Yes, Richmond has 63 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include TT, RPT, Other. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Richmond?
Richmond 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Richmond's tap water come from?
Richmond's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by MADISON CO UTILITIES DISTRICT and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 66,700 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Richmond'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. Richmond'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 Richmond's water compare to other cities in Kentucky?
Richmond's water quality score of 63/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Kentucky state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Richmond's water quality?
If you have concerns about Richmond'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 (MADISON CO UTILITIES 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.