B79/100
Hilton Head Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,318 residents · South Carolina
What's In Hilton Head's Tap Water?
1
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
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: 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
WATER OAK UTILITY CO (SC0750002)
Population Served
2,318
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
SC0750002
Frequently Asked Questions About Hilton Head Water
Is Hilton Head tap water safe to drink?
Hilton Head, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of B (79/100), which is considered good. Out of 1 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 Hilton Head's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Hilton Head'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 Hilton Head have any water quality violations?
Yes, Hilton Head has 10 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MCL, MR. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Hilton Head?
Hilton Head 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 Hilton Head's tap water come from?
Hilton Head's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by WATER OAK UTILITY CO (SC0750002). The system serves approximately 2,318 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Hilton Head'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. Hilton Head'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 Hilton Head's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Hilton Head's water quality score of 79/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Hilton Head's water quality?
If you have concerns about Hilton Head'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 (WATER OAK UTILITY CO (SC0750002)) 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.