F3/100
Columbia Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 17,891 residents · Mississippi
What's In Columbia's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.50 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
4
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2024 – November 21, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – November 21, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
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, 2024 – December 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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, 2024 – December 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
BUNKER HILL WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
2,700
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0460001
CITY OF COLUMBIA
Population Served
5,900
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0460003
HIGHWAY 98 EAST WATER ASSN.
Population Served
1,632
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0460007
HUB WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
3,260
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0460008
LAMPTON WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
1,983
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0460009
MT GILEAD-IMPROVE WATER ASSN
Population Served
2,416
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0460012
Frequently Asked Questions About Columbia Water
Is Columbia tap water safe to drink?
Columbia, Mississippi tap water receives a grade of F (3/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 916 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Columbia's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Columbia's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Columbia have any water quality violations?
Yes, Columbia has 916 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, MR. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Columbia?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Columbia 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 Columbia's tap water come from?
Columbia's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BUNKER HILL WATER ASSOCIATION and 5 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 17,891 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Columbia'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. Columbia'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 Columbia's water compare to other cities in Mississippi?
Columbia's water quality score of 3/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Mississippi state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Columbia's water quality?
If you have concerns about Columbia'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 (BUNKER HILL WATER ASSOCIATION) 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.