B66/100
Lenoir Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 50,436 residents · North Carolina
What's In Lenoir's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Violation related to Nitrate
When: October 1, 2021 – October 31, 2021Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: 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
LENOIR, CITY OF
Population Served
25,573
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0114010
CALDWELL COUNTY WATER--WEST
Population Served
8,662
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0114045
CALDWELL CO WATER SYSTEM-SE
Population Served
15,007
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0114047
GREEN MOUNTAIN PARK
Population Served
1,194
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NC0114459
Frequently Asked Questions About Lenoir Water
Is Lenoir tap water safe to drink?
Lenoir, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of B (66/100), which is considered good. Out of 70 contaminants tested, 1 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 Lenoir's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Lenoir's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), chlorate. 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 Lenoir have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lenoir has 140 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, TT. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lenoir?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Lenoir 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 Lenoir's tap water come from?
Lenoir's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by LENOIR, CITY OF and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 50,436 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Lenoir'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. Lenoir'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 Lenoir's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Lenoir's water quality score of 66/100 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 Lenoir's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lenoir'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 (LENOIR, 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.