B68/100
Parsons Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,585 residents · Tennessee
What's In Parsons's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.013 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.007 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2014.
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
PARSONS WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
4,303
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
TN0000541
PERRYVILLE UTILITY DISTRICT
Population Served
3,127
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TN0000543
AQUA UTILITIES
Population Served
1,155
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
TN0000948
Frequently Asked Questions About Parsons Water
Is Parsons tap water safe to drink?
Parsons, Tennessee tap water receives a grade of B (68/100), which is considered good. Out of 31 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 Parsons's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Parsons's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 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 Parsons have any water quality violations?
Yes, Parsons has 43 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MON, Other. 7 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Parsons?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Parsons 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 Parsons's tap water come from?
Parsons's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by PARSONS WATER DEPARTMENT and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 8,585 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Parsons'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. Parsons'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 Parsons's water compare to other cities in Tennessee?
Parsons's water quality score of 68/100 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 Parsons's water quality?
If you have concerns about Parsons'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 (PARSONS WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.