F18/100
Olive Branch Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 64,482 residents · Mississippi
What's In Olive Branch's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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
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
CITY OF OLIVE BRANCH
Population Served
54,025
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0170015
LEWISBURG -INGRAMS MILL NORTH
Population Served
1,067
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0170049
LEWISBURG WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
9,390
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0170011
Frequently Asked Questions About Olive Branch Water
Is Olive Branch tap water safe to drink?
Olive Branch, Mississippi tap water receives a grade of F (18/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 228 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Olive Branch's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Olive Branch's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). 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 Olive Branch have any water quality violations?
Yes, Olive Branch has 228 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, MR. 8 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Olive Branch?
Olive Branch 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 Olive Branch's tap water come from?
Olive Branch's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CITY OF OLIVE BRANCH and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 64,482 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Olive Branch'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. Olive Branch'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 Olive Branch's water compare to other cities in Mississippi?
Olive Branch's water quality score of 18/100 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 Olive Branch's water quality?
If you have concerns about Olive Branch'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 (CITY OF OLIVE BRANCH) 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.