D35/100
Franklin Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 9,650 residents · North Carolina
What's In Franklin's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.017 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Other non-health-based violation
When: December 10, 2024 – February 19, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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 20, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – November 20, 2024Rule: 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
FRANKLIN, TOWN OF
Population Served
9,650
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0157010
Frequently Asked Questions About Franklin Water
Is Franklin tap water safe to drink?
Franklin, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of D (35/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 49 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Franklin's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Franklin's water supply, the most notable include Lead (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 Franklin have any water quality violations?
Yes, Franklin has 49 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include TT, RPT, MR. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Franklin?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Franklin 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 Franklin's tap water come from?
Franklin's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by FRANKLIN, TOWN OF. The system serves approximately 9,650 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Franklin'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. Franklin'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 Franklin's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Franklin's water quality score of 35/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. 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 Franklin's water quality?
If you have concerns about Franklin'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 (FRANKLIN, 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.