C47/100
Beaufort Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,452 residents · North Carolina
What's In Beaufort'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) | 1.35 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
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 12, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – November 12, 2024Rule: Ground Water 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: September 1, 2021 – August 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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: September 1, 2021 – August 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
BEAUFORT, TOWN OF
Population Served
4,452
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NC0416010
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaufort Water
Is Beaufort tap water safe to drink?
Beaufort, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of C (47/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 14 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Beaufort's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Beaufort'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 Beaufort have any water quality violations?
Yes, Beaufort has 14 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, MR. 7 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Beaufort?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Beaufort 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 Beaufort's tap water come from?
Beaufort's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BEAUFORT, TOWN OF. The system serves approximately 4,452 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Beaufort'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. Beaufort'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 Beaufort's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Beaufort's water quality score of 47/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Beaufort's water quality?
If you have concerns about Beaufort'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 (BEAUFORT, 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.