B78/100
Pawleys Island Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 49,341 residents · South Carolina
What's In Pawleys Island's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
4 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 |
1,4-dioxane | 0.550 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.007 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
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, 2022 – September 30, 2022Rule: Stage 2 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
GCWSD KILSOCK WATER SYS (SC2220002)
Population Served
4,417
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC2220002
GCWSD PLANTERSVILLE SYS (2220004)
Population Served
1,079
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC2220004
GCWSD WEDGEFIELD PLANTATION (2220006)
Population Served
1,132
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC2220006
GCWSD WACCAMAW NECK (SC2220010)
Population Served
37,790
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
SC2220010
GCWSD GARDEN CITY POINT (SC2220011)
Population Served
1,790
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
SC2220011
GCWSD CARVERS BAY (SC2220013)
Population Served
3,133
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC2220013
Frequently Asked Questions About Pawleys Island Water
Is Pawleys Island tap water safe to drink?
Pawleys Island, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of B (78/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 4 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 Pawleys Island's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Pawleys Island's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), 1,4-dioxane. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Pawleys Island have any water quality violations?
Yes, Pawleys Island has 46 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL. 12 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Pawleys Island?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Pawleys Island 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 Pawleys Island's tap water come from?
Pawleys Island's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by GCWSD KILSOCK WATER SYS (SC2220002) and 5 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 49,341 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Pawleys Island'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. Pawleys Island'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 Pawleys Island's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Pawleys Island'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 South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Pawleys Island's water quality?
If you have concerns about Pawleys Island'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 (GCWSD KILSOCK WATER SYS (SC2220002)) 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.