B62/100
Buena Vista Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 6,566 residents · Virginia
What's In Buena Vista's Tap Water?
52
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.32 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: August 1, 2023 – August 31, 2023Rule: Total Coliform 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 – September 12, 2023Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: 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
BUENA VISTA, CITY OF
Population Served
6,566
Water Source
Groundwater Under Influence of Surface Water
System ID
VA2530125
Frequently Asked Questions About Buena Vista Water
Is Buena Vista tap water safe to drink?
Buena Vista, Virginia tap water receives a grade of B (62/100), which is considered good. Out of 52 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Buena Vista's water?
Of the 52 contaminants tested in Buena Vista's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Buena Vista have any water quality violations?
Yes, Buena Vista has 11 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MON, MR, MCL. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Buena Vista?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Buena Vista is recommended. 1 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 Buena Vista's tap water come from?
Buena Vista's drinking water is sourced from groundwater under influence of surface water and supplied by BUENA VISTA, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 6,566 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Buena Vista'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. Buena Vista'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 Buena Vista's water compare to other cities in Virginia?
Buena Vista's water quality score of 62/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Virginia state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Buena Vista's water quality?
If you have concerns about Buena Vista'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 (BUENA VISTA, CITY OF) 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.