F19/100
Banner Elk Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,164 residents · North Carolina
What's In Banner Elk's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.00 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2023 – March 7, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2022 – March 23, 2022Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: 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
BANNER ELK, TOWN OF
Population Served
1,164
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NC0106015
Frequently Asked Questions About Banner Elk Water
Is Banner Elk tap water safe to drink?
Banner Elk, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of F (19/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 61 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Banner Elk's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Banner Elk's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile). 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 Banner Elk have any water quality violations?
Yes, Banner Elk has 61 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Banner Elk?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Banner Elk 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 Banner Elk's tap water come from?
Banner Elk's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BANNER ELK, TOWN OF. The system serves approximately 1,164 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Banner Elk'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. Banner Elk'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 Banner Elk's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Banner Elk's water quality score of 19/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Banner Elk's water quality?
If you have concerns about Banner Elk'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 (BANNER ELK, TOWN 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.