C51/100
Bell Buckle Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,633 residents · Tennessee
What's In Bell Buckle's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.70 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
TIER 2Resolved
Maximum contaminant level violation
When: May 21, 2023 – June 9, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: 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
BELL BUCKLE WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
2,633
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TN0000044
Frequently Asked Questions About Bell Buckle Water
Is Bell Buckle tap water safe to drink?
Bell Buckle, Tennessee tap water receives a grade of C (51/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 30 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Bell Buckle's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Bell Buckle's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Bell Buckle have any water quality violations?
Yes, Bell Buckle has 30 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, TT, MR. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Bell Buckle?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Bell Buckle is recommended. 1 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 Bell Buckle's tap water come from?
Bell Buckle's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by BELL BUCKLE WATER SYSTEM. The system serves approximately 2,633 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Bell Buckle'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. Bell Buckle'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 Bell Buckle's water compare to other cities in Tennessee?
Bell Buckle's water quality score of 51/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Tennessee state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Bell Buckle's water quality?
If you have concerns about Bell Buckle'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 (BELL BUCKLE WATER SYSTEM) 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.