D32/100
Columbia Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 321,146 residents · South Carolina
What's In Columbia's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
3
Above EPA Goals
5 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.009 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.007 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 300.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
1,4-dioxane | 0.470 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: December 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
LIEBER CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTE (1870050)
Population Served
1,646
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC1870050
COLUMBIA CITY OF (SC4010001)
Population Served
319,500
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
SC4010001
Frequently Asked Questions About Columbia Water
Is Columbia tap water safe to drink?
Columbia, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of D (32/100), which is considered poor. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 39 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Columbia's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Columbia's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate, 1,4-dioxane. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 5 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Columbia have any water quality violations?
Yes, Columbia has 39 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MCL, MR, TT. 17 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Columbia?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Columbia 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 Columbia's tap water come from?
Columbia's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by LIEBER CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTE (1870050) and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 321,146 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Columbia'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. Columbia'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 Columbia's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Columbia's water quality score of 32/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Columbia's water quality?
If you have concerns about Columbia'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 (LIEBER CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTE (1870050)) 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.