B69/100
Chattanooga Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 278,560 residents · Tennessee
What's In Chattanooga's Tap Water?
77
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.90 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
This system has a clean compliance history.
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
TENNESSEE AMERICAN WATER
Population Served
211,499
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
TN0000107
EASTSIDE UTILITY DISTRICT
Population Served
57,939
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
TN0000219
TN AMERICAN - SEQUATCHIE VALLEY
Population Served
7,842
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
TN0000749
JASPER HIGHLANDS WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
1,280
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TN0008286
Frequently Asked Questions About Chattanooga Water
Is Chattanooga tap water safe to drink?
Chattanooga, Tennessee tap water receives a grade of B (69/100), which is considered good. Out of 77 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Chattanooga's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Chattanooga'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 Chattanooga have any water quality violations?
Yes, Chattanooga has 69 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 17 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Chattanooga?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga's tap water come from?
Chattanooga's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by TENNESSEE AMERICAN WATER and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 278,560 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Chattanooga'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. Chattanooga'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 Chattanooga's water compare to other cities in Tennessee?
Chattanooga's water quality score of 69/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Tennessee state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Chattanooga's water quality?
If you have concerns about Chattanooga'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 (TENNESSEE AMERICAN WATER) 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.