B78/100
Elk City Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 12,127 residents · Oklahoma
What's In Elk City's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
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: January 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: 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: July 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2023 – July 31, 2023Rule: Total Coliform 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
ELK CITY
Population Served
10,510
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OK2000501
BECKHAM CO RWD # 3
Population Served
1,617
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OK2000547
Frequently Asked Questions About Elk City Water
Is Elk City tap water safe to drink?
Elk City, Oklahoma tap water receives a grade of B (78/100), which is considered good. Out of 66 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 Elk City's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Elk City's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). 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 Elk City have any water quality violations?
Yes, Elk City has 32 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, MR. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Elk City?
Elk 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 Elk City's tap water come from?
Elk City's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ELK CITY and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 12,127 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Elk 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. Elk 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 Elk City's water compare to other cities in Oklahoma?
Elk City's water quality score of 78/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Oklahoma state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Elk City's water quality?
If you have concerns about Elk 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 (ELK CITY) 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.