D26/100
Tahlequah Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 20,008 residents · Oklahoma
What's In Tahlequah'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 | 553.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
3
Health-Related
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 – July 15, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – July 15, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 2 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 30, 2022 – November 28, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: April 1, 2022 – June 30, 2022Rule: 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
TAHLEQUAH PWA
Population Served
14,458
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
OK1021701
CHEROKEE CO. RWD #3 (GRANDVIEW)
Population Served
2,300
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
OK4001117
STICKROSS MOUNTAIN WATER CO
Population Served
3,250
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
OK4001118
Frequently Asked Questions About Tahlequah Water
Is Tahlequah tap water safe to drink?
Tahlequah, Oklahoma tap water receives a grade of D (26/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 200 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Tahlequah's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Tahlequah's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Tahlequah have any water quality violations?
Yes, Tahlequah has 200 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, RPT, TT. 42 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Tahlequah?
Tahlequah 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. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Tahlequah's tap water come from?
Tahlequah's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by TAHLEQUAH PWA and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 20,008 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Tahlequah'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. Tahlequah'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 Tahlequah's water compare to other cities in Oklahoma?
Tahlequah's water quality score of 26/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Oklahoma state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Tahlequah's water quality?
If you have concerns about Tahlequah'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 (TAHLEQUAH PWA) 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.