F11/100
Spring Lake Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 11,725 residents · North Carolina
What's In Spring Lake's Tap Water?
54
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.013 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.009 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
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.
TIER 3Unresolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
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: September 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 11, 2024 – May 15, 2024Rule: Total Coliform 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
SPRING LAKE, TOWN OF
Population Served
11,725
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0326020
Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Lake Water
Is Spring Lake tap water safe to drink?
Spring Lake, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of F (11/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 41 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Spring Lake's water?
Of the 54 contaminants tested in Spring Lake'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 Spring Lake have any water quality violations?
Yes, Spring Lake has 41 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, MON. 8 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Spring Lake?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Spring Lake 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 Spring Lake's tap water come from?
Spring Lake's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by SPRING LAKE, TOWN OF. The system serves approximately 11,725 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Spring Lake'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. Spring Lake'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 Spring Lake's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Spring Lake'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 Spring Lake's water quality?
If you have concerns about Spring Lake'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 (SPRING LAKE, 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.