B76/100
Terrell Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 45,648 residents · Texas
What's In Terrell's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 345.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
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 2013.
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 TERRELL
Population Served
18,432
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX1290006
ABLES SPRINGS SUD
Population Served
5,655
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX1290010
COLLEGE MOUND SUD
Population Served
13,200
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX1290012
POETRY WSC
Population Served
3,534
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX1290022
ROSE HILL SUD
Population Served
4,827
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX1290023
Frequently Asked Questions About Terrell Water
Is Terrell tap water safe to drink?
Terrell, Texas tap water receives a grade of B (76/100), which is considered good. Out of 70 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 4 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 Terrell's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Terrell's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Terrell have any water quality violations?
Yes, Terrell has 41 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, RPT, TT. 12 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Terrell?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Terrell 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 Terrell's tap water come from?
Terrell's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CITY OF TERRELL and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 45,648 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Terrell'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. Terrell'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 Terrell's water compare to other cities in Texas?
Terrell's water quality score of 76/100 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 Terrell's water quality?
If you have concerns about Terrell'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 TERRELL) 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.