B72/100
Petersburg Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 42,229 residents · Virginia
What's In Petersburg'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 | 620.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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: April 1, 2024 – April 30, 2024Rule: 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
DCWA CENTRAL
Population Served
7,764
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VA3053280
WILDWOOD FARMS
Population Served
1,071
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
VA3149950
PETERSBURG, CITY OF
Population Served
33,394
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VA3730750
Frequently Asked Questions About Petersburg Water
Is Petersburg tap water safe to drink?
Petersburg, Virginia tap water receives a grade of B (72/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 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 Petersburg's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Petersburg'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 Petersburg have any water quality violations?
Yes, Petersburg has 38 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Petersburg?
Petersburg 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 Petersburg's tap water come from?
Petersburg's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by DCWA CENTRAL and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 42,229 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Petersburg'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. Petersburg'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 Petersburg's water compare to other cities in Virginia?
Petersburg's water quality score of 72/100 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 Petersburg's water quality?
If you have concerns about Petersburg'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 (DCWA CENTRAL) 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.