B75/100
Olney Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,285 residents · Texas
What's In Olney's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: November 19, 2023 – June 25, 2024Rule: Ground Water 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, 2022 – September 30, 2022Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: September 6, 2021 – October 1, 2021Rule: Ground Water 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
CITY OF OLNEY
Population Served
3,285
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
TX2520003
Frequently Asked Questions About Olney Water
Is Olney tap water safe to drink?
Olney, Texas tap water receives a grade of B (75/100), which is considered good. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Olney's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Olney'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 Olney have any water quality violations?
Yes, Olney has 14 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, Other. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Olney?
Olney 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 Olney's tap water come from?
Olney's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by CITY OF OLNEY. The system serves approximately 3,285 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Olney'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. Olney'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 Olney's water compare to other cities in Texas?
Olney'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 Olney's water quality?
If you have concerns about Olney'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 OLNEY) 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.