F0/100
Tellico Plains Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 7,759 residents · Tennessee
What's In Tellico Plains's Tap Water?
51
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Violation related to Consumer Confidence Report
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2023 – July 31, 2023Rule: Consumer Confidence RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
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, 2023 – August 31, 2023Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2023 – July 31, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2022Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: 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
TELLICO PLAINS WATER DEPT
Population Served
7,759
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
TN0000693
Frequently Asked Questions About Tellico Plains Water
Is Tellico Plains tap water safe to drink?
Tellico Plains, Tennessee tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 127 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Tellico Plains's water?
Of the 51 contaminants tested in Tellico Plains'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 Tellico Plains have any water quality violations?
Yes, Tellico Plains has 127 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, MON, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Tellico Plains?
Tellico Plains 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 Tellico Plains's tap water come from?
Tellico Plains's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by TELLICO PLAINS WATER DEPT. The system serves approximately 7,759 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Tellico Plains'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. Tellico Plains'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 Tellico Plains's water compare to other cities in Tennessee?
Tellico Plains's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Tennessee state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Tellico Plains's water quality?
If you have concerns about Tellico Plains'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 (TELLICO PLAINS WATER DEPT) 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.