D34/100
Fort Jackson Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 31,000 residents · South Carolina
What's In Fort Jackson's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 480.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2024 – May 31, 2024Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: 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: May 1, 2024 – May 31, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: 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: April 1, 2024 – June 28, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: 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
FORT JACKSON (SC4010501)
Population Served
31,000
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
SC4010501
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Jackson Water
Is Fort Jackson tap water safe to drink?
Fort Jackson, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of D (34/100), which is considered poor. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 15 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Fort Jackson's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Fort Jackson's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, chlorate. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Fort Jackson have any water quality violations?
Yes, Fort Jackson has 15 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, MON, MCL. 8 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Fort Jackson?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Fort Jackson 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 Fort Jackson's tap water come from?
Fort Jackson's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by FORT JACKSON (SC4010501). The system serves approximately 31,000 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Fort Jackson'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. Fort Jackson'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 Fort Jackson's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Fort Jackson's water quality score of 34/100 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 Fort Jackson's water quality?
If you have concerns about Fort Jackson'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 (FORT JACKSON (SC4010501)) 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.