B64/100
New Orleans Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 387,688 residents · Louisiana
What's In New Orleans's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 490.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Violation related to Nitrate
When: January 1, 2025 – January 31, 2025Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2022 – March 31, 2022Rule: Stage 1 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
NEW ORLEANS ALGIERS WATER WORKS
Population Served
52,785
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
LA1071001
NEW ORLEANS CARROLLTON WATER WORKS
Population Served
334,903
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
LA1071009
Frequently Asked Questions About New Orleans Water
Is New Orleans tap water safe to drink?
New Orleans, Louisiana tap water receives a grade of B (64/100), which is considered good. Out of 76 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 New Orleans's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in New Orleans's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does New Orleans have any water quality violations?
Yes, New Orleans has 17 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include TT, MON, MR. 10 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in New Orleans?
New Orleans 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. 3 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does New Orleans's tap water come from?
New Orleans's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by NEW ORLEANS ALGIERS WATER WORKS and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 387,688 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is New Orleans'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. New Orleans'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 New Orleans's water compare to other cities in Louisiana?
New Orleans's water quality score of 64/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Louisiana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about New Orleans's water quality?
If you have concerns about New Orleans'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 (NEW ORLEANS ALGIERS 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.