A92/100
Carrboro Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 86,300 residents · North Carolina
What's In Carrboro's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 630.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2023Rule: 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
ORANGE WATER & SEWER AUTHORITY
Population Served
86,300
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0368010
Frequently Asked Questions About Carrboro Water
Is Carrboro tap water safe to drink?
Carrboro, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of A (92/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Carrboro's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Carrboro's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Carrboro have any water quality violations?
Yes, Carrboro has 2 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Carrboro?
Carrboro 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. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Carrboro's tap water come from?
Carrboro's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by ORANGE WATER & SEWER AUTHORITY. The system serves approximately 86,300 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Carrboro'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. Carrboro'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 Carrboro's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Carrboro's water quality score of 92/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Carrboro among the better-performing water systems in North Carolina. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Carrboro's water quality?
If you have concerns about Carrboro'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 (ORANGE WATER & SEWER AUTHORITY) 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.