F11/100
Durham Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 322,083 residents · North Carolina
What's In Durham's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: February 11, 2023 – February 14, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – October 14, 2021Enforcement: 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
DURHAM, CITY OF
Population Served
322,083
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0332010
Frequently Asked Questions About Durham Water
Is Durham tap water safe to drink?
Durham, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of F (11/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 69 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Durham's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Durham's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA. 2 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 Durham have any water quality violations?
Yes, Durham has 69 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include RPT, Other, MR. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Durham?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Durham is recommended. 2 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 Durham's tap water come from?
Durham's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by DURHAM, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 322,083 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Durham'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. Durham'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 Durham's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Durham's water quality score of 11/100 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 Durham's water quality?
If you have concerns about Durham'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 (DURHAM, 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.