Is Garner, NC Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
43/100
waterverge.com Garner, NC — Water Quality Report
Garner's drinking water received a grade of F (43 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 64 water systems serve approximately 14,813 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 2185 violations on record, including 89 health-based violations. 440 remain unresolved.
What to know about Garner's water
Garner ranks #364 out of 417 cities in North Carolina for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Garner relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
The system has seen 287 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Garner, NC water safe to drink?
Garner's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (43/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 64 water systems serve approximately 14,813 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Garner
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Garner's water quality assessment. Grade: F (43/100).
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule, Chlorine.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule, Chlorine, Xylenes, Total.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3586). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3534). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Garner's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Garner's water system has 2,185 total violations on record, including 89 health-based violations. 440 remain unresolved. 287 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Wake County has experienced 7 federally declared disasters since 2005. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Bond Lake, Coles Branch Reservoir, Hatchers Grove Reservoir, Page Lake, Sorrells Grove Reservoir.
Where does Garner's water come from?
Garner's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 64 water systems serving approximately 14,813 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Bond Lake (lake), Coles Branch Reservoir (lake), Hatchers Grove Reservoir (lake), Page Lake (lake), Sorrells Grove Reservoir (lake).
What Garner residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Garner's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Garner's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Garner
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Garner, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
OLDCASTLE PRECAST INC RALEIGH, NC27603 | — | — | 3.8 mi |
SAFETY-KLEEN SYSTEMS RALEIGH (RAL) RALEIGH, NC27603 | — | — | 2.1 mi |
SURTRONICS INC. RALEIGH, NC27606 | — | — | 8.3 mi |
ARGOS PERSHING RD CONCRETE PLANT RALEIGH, NC27608 | — | — | 7.7 mi |
EAST CAROLINA METAL TREATING INC. RALEIGH, NC27603 | — | — | 7.3 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Garner
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY LOT 86 FARM UNIT 19.3 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D3 — extreme droughtJohnston County is currently in D3 (extreme drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
Wake County has experienced 7 federally declared disasters since 2005. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Garner's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 0.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 3.17 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Garner compares by contaminant
Explore where Garner ranks among all North Carolina cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Garner's water comes from
Garner's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by private ownership and serves approximately 14,813 people through 64 water systems.
Water bodies near Garner
Garner is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Garner
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| TURNER FARMS III & IV | NC0392331 | 757 | GW |
| MIDDLE CREEK MASTER | NC0392355 | 681 | GW |
| WHITTINGHAM MASTER SYSTEM | NC4092039 | 680 | GW |
| KENSINGTON MEADOWS S/D | NC0392314 | 638 | GW |
| CAMELOT S/D | NC0392111 | 607 | GW |
| BROADHURST/TURNER DOWNS S/D | NC4392129 | 597 | GW |
| CREST OF CAROLINA MASTER | NC4092006 | 564 | GW |
| STAGECOACH S/D | NC0392087 | 561 | GW |
| NOTTINGHAM FOREST S/D | NC0392257 | 549 | GW |
| TURNER FARMS V MASTER SYSTEM | NC0392398 | 518 | GW |
| WILDERS RIDGE S/D | NC4392157 | 518 | GW |
| SOUTHERN TRACE S/D | NC4392141 | 485 | GW |
| HILLINGTON WEST S/D | NC4392169 | 394 | GW |
| OLD STAGE PLACE | NC4392183 | 364 | GW |
| CREEKSIDE PLACE S/D | NC0351192 | 361 | SWP |
| SAWYER`S MILL S/D | NC4392216 | 355 | GW |
| HOLLAND MASTER SYSTEM | NC4392150 | 325 | GW |
| KENDALL HILL MASTER | NC4392225 | 267 | GW |
| HORSESHOE MOBILE ESTATES | NC0392113 | 255 | GW |
| SOUTHSIDE MHP | NC0392190 | 254 | GW |
| LASSITER FARMS S/D | NC4092099 | 254 | GW |
| COLONIAL HEIGHTS-MALIBU S/D | NC0392116 | 238 | GW |
| GRISSOM FARM S/D | NC4392211 | 236 | GW |
| GLEN CREEK | NC4092155 | 229 | GW |
| WOODWAY S/D | NC0392365 | 188 | GW |
| TAVERNIER SUBDIVISION | NC4092068 | 185 | GW |
| STONEY CREEK S/D | NC4392151 | 173 | GW |
| HOKE LANDING S/D | NC4092102 | 165 | GW |
| UPCHURCH PLACE S/D | NC4092038 | 157 | GW |
| COUNTRY HILLS S/D | NC0351104 | 152 | GW |
| DALLAS ACRES | NC0392108 | 150 | GW |
| TURNER FARMS IX & X | NC4092098 | 150 | GW |
| 70 EAST MOBILE ACRES | NC0392107 | 140 | GW |
| TURNER FARMS I & II | NC0392280 | 130 | GW |
| HUDSON MEADOWS S/D | NC4092042 | 122 | GW |
| BARRINGTON HILLS S/D | NC4092066 | 122 | GW |
| LAUREL GROVE S/D | NC4392147 | 119 | GW |
| GARNER ESTATES MH S/D | NC0351156 | 114 | GW |
| WHITECROFT MANOR S/D | NC4092087 | 113 | GW |
| MIAL PLANTATION S/D | NC4392215 | 110 | GW |
| CLEVELAND MHP | NC0351176 | 107 | GW |
| MOBILE HILL ESTATE NO 3 | NC0392303 | 105 | GW |
| WHITE OAK VILLAGE | NC0392119 | 104 | GW |
| WYNSTONE S/D | NC4392134 | 104 | GW |
| JOHNSON & SON MHP | NC0392147 | 102 | GW |
| JORDAN RIDGE S/D | NC4392135 | 99 | GW |
| BRADFORD PLACE S/D | NC4392145 | 95 | GW |
| MOBILE HILL ESTATES I | NC0392166 | 91 | GW |
| HUNT FARMS S/D | NC4392105 | 90 | GW |
| BRAXTON POINTE S/D | NC4092110 | 89 | GW |
| TYLER FARMS S/D | NC4392160 | 89 | GW |
| LEGEND HILLS S/D | NC0392263 | 84 | GW |
| RIDGEVIEW S/D | NC4392187 | 79 | GW |
| COLONIAL HEIGHTS-MEADOWBROOK | NC0392213 | 77 | GW |
| OAK RIDGE VALLEY | NC0392172 | 71 | GW |
| JORDAN WOODS S/D | NC0392099 | 70 | GW |
| MONTERREY S/D | NC4392233 | 69 | GW |
| GREEN PINES PARK | NC0392223 | 66 | GW |
| HANOVER DOWNS S/D | NC0392364 | 53 | GW |
| WOODBROOK S/D | NC0392336 | 49 | GW |
| BURNETTE`S MHP | NC0392212 | 47 | GW |
| GENTLE SLOPE SUBDIVISION | NC0392352 | 38 | GW |
| MIDDLE CREEK ACRES S/D | NC0392370 | 30 | GW |
| MOBILE HILL ESTATES NO 2 | NC0392311 | 28 | GW |
How Garner compares
Full North Carolina rankings →Garner's score of 43/100 is on par with the average of 43/100 among major North Carolina cities. It outscores 8 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View North Carolina rankings →About Garner, NC
Wikipedia →Cary is a town in Wake, Chatham, and Durham counties in the U.S. state of North Carolina and is part of the Raleigh-Cary, NC Metropolitan Statistical Area. According to the 2020 census, its population was 174,721, making it the seventh-most populous municipality in North Carolina, and the 146th-most populous in the United States. In 2023, the town's population had increased to 180,010.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Garner's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Wake
Frequently asked questions
Is Garner, NC tap water safe to drink?
Garner's water quality earned a grade of F (43/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #364 out of 417 cities tested in North Carolina.
What contaminants are in Garner's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 2185 violations are on record.
How is Garner's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Garner?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Garner's water come from?
Garner's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 64 water systems serving approximately 14,813 residents.
What health violations has Garner's water system had?
Garner has 89 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in November 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 440 violations remain unresolved.
Is Garner's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Garner uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 2185 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Garner's water compare to other cities?
Garner ranks #364 out of 417 cities in North Carolina (better than 13% of state cities) and #14652 out of 15744 cities nationally (7th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.