F0/100
Sturgis Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,490 residents · Kentucky
What's In Sturgis's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.011 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
9
Violations (last 5yr)
3
Unresolved
7
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 2, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: April 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: December 24, 2024 – May 1, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2024 – September 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
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023Rule: 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
STURGIS WATER WORKS
Population Served
3,490
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KY1130422
Frequently Asked Questions About Sturgis Water
Is Sturgis tap water safe to drink?
Sturgis, Kentucky tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 117 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Sturgis's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Sturgis's water supply, the most notable include PFOA. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Sturgis have any water quality violations?
Yes, Sturgis has 117 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include RPT, MCL, Other. 47 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Sturgis?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Sturgis 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 Sturgis's tap water come from?
Sturgis's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by STURGIS WATER WORKS. The system serves approximately 3,490 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Sturgis'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. Sturgis'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 Sturgis's water compare to other cities in Kentucky?
Sturgis'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 Sturgis's water quality?
If you have concerns about Sturgis'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 (STURGIS 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.