B70/100
Forest City Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 21,521 residents · North Carolina
What's In Forest City's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 380.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (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: April 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Rule: 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: April 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: February 8, 2023 – April 12, 2023Rule: 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: January 1, 2023 – March 31, 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
FOREST CITY, TOWN OF
Population Served
21,521
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0181010
Frequently Asked Questions About Forest City Water
Is Forest City tap water safe to drink?
Forest City, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of B (70/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Forest City's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Forest City's water supply, the most notable include chlorate. 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 Forest City have any water quality violations?
Yes, Forest City has 23 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, TT. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Forest City?
Forest City 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 Forest City's tap water come from?
Forest City's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by FOREST CITY, TOWN OF. The system serves approximately 21,521 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Forest City'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. Forest City'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 Forest City's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Forest City's water quality score of 70/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Forest City's water quality?
If you have concerns about Forest City'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 (FOREST CITY, 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.