F0/100
Picayune Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 17,587 residents · Mississippi
What's In Picayune'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: October 1, 2022 – September 30, 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: October 1, 2022 – September 30, 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
PICAYUNE UTILITIES, CITY OF
Population Served
11,859
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0550004
HIDE-A-WAY LAKE WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
2,727
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0550013
NICHOLSON WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
3,001
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0550041
Frequently Asked Questions About Picayune Water
Is Picayune tap water safe to drink?
Picayune, Mississippi tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 419 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Picayune's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Picayune'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 Picayune have any water quality violations?
Yes, Picayune has 419 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR, MON. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Picayune?
Picayune 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 Picayune's tap water come from?
Picayune's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by PICAYUNE UTILITIES, CITY OF and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 17,587 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Picayune'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. Picayune'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 Picayune's water compare to other cities in Mississippi?
Picayune'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 Mississippi state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Picayune's water quality?
If you have concerns about Picayune'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 (PICAYUNE UTILITIES, CITY OF) 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.