A88/100
Norfolk Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 298,051 residents · Virginia
What's In Norfolk's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 480.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Missed required monitoring deadline
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: February 1, 2024 – February 12, 2024Rule: Surface Water Treatment 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
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY-NW
Population Served
1,400
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
VA3550620
NAVAL STATION NORFOLK
Population Served
48,826
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VA3710050
NORFOLK, CITY OF
Population Served
234,220
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
VA3710100
NSA HAMPTON ROADS, MAIN BASE
Population Served
7,533
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VA3710850
NSA HAMPTON ROADS, PORTSMOUTH ANNEX
Population Served
6,072
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VA3740650
Frequently Asked Questions About Norfolk Water
Is Norfolk tap water safe to drink?
Norfolk, Virginia tap water receives a grade of A (88/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 76 contaminants tested, none 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 Norfolk's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Norfolk's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Norfolk have any water quality violations?
Yes, Norfolk has 18 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 7 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Norfolk?
Norfolk 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. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Norfolk's tap water come from?
Norfolk's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY-NW and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 298,051 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Norfolk'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. Norfolk'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 Norfolk's water compare to other cities in Virginia?
Norfolk's water quality score of 88/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Norfolk among the better-performing water systems in Virginia. Visit our Virginia state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Norfolk's water quality?
If you have concerns about Norfolk'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 (NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY-NW) 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.