B75/100
Galveston Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 52,326 residents · Texas
What's In Galveston's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
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.
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
CITY OF GALVESTON
Population Served
52,326
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX0840003
Frequently Asked Questions About Galveston Water
Is Galveston tap water safe to drink?
Galveston, Texas tap water receives a grade of B (75/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Galveston's water?
69 contaminants were tested in Galveston's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Galveston have any water quality violations?
Yes, Galveston has 17 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Galveston?
Galveston 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Galveston's tap water come from?
Galveston's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CITY OF GALVESTON. The system serves approximately 52,326 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Galveston'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. Galveston'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 Galveston's water compare to other cities in Texas?
Galveston's water quality score of 75/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Texas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Galveston's water quality?
If you have concerns about Galveston'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 (CITY OF GALVESTON) 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.