Is Zebulon, NC Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded D — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
46/100
waterverge.com Zebulon, NC — Water Quality Report
Zebulon's drinking water received a grade of D (46 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 10 water systems serve approximately 1,669 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 531 violations on record, including 35 health-based violations. 88 remain unresolved.
What to know about Zebulon's water
Zebulon ranks #342 out of 417 cities in North Carolina for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Zebulon 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.
As a small community water system, Zebulon may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 16 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Zebulon, NC water safe to drink?
Zebulon's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of D (46/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 10 water systems serve approximately 1,669 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Zebulon
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Zebulon's water quality assessment. Grade: D (46/100).
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Nitrate.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
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 Zebulon'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
Zebulon's water system has 531 total violations on record, including 35 health-based violations. 88 remain unresolved. 16 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Mecklenburg County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 2004. 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 Mallard Cr Bl Stony Cr Nr Harrisburg, Reedy Creek, Gar Creek, Catawba River Dnstrm Deck Mtn Is Dam Nr Mtn Is, Long Creek.
Where does Zebulon's water come from?
Zebulon's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 10 water systems serving approximately 1,669 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Mallard Cr Bl Stony Cr Nr Harrisburg (river), Reedy Creek (river), Gar Creek (river), Catawba River Dnstrm Deck Mtn Is Dam Nr Mtn Is (river), Long Creek (river).
What Zebulon residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Zebulon'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.
Zebulon'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 Zebulon
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Zebulon, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
ARGOS KNIGHTDALE CONCRETE PLANT KNIGHTDALE, NC27545 | — | — | 10.0 mi |
SUNROCK INDUSTRIES LLC - EASTERN WAKE ZEBULON, NC27597 | — | — | 2.3 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
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
Mecklenburg County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 2004. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Zebulon'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. | 1.69 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.690 mg/L (2016)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Zebulon compares by contaminant
Explore where Zebulon ranks among all North Carolina cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Zebulon's water comes from
Zebulon'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 1,669 people through 10 water systems.
Water bodies near Zebulon
Zebulon is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Zebulon
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| BUFFALO CREEK S/D | NC0351189 | 721 | GW |
| PONDEROSA S/D | NC0392182 | 170 | GW |
| WOODFORD S/D | NC4035014 | 125 | GW |
| MENDENHALL S/D | NC4092174 | 121 | GW |
| JEFFREYS MHP NO 2 | NC0392180 | 115 | GW |
| LONG`S MH VILLAGE | NC0392154 | 90 | GW |
| FOX-N-HOUNDS S/D | NC0392100 | 87 | GW |
| COUNTRY SQUIRE MOBILE ESTATES | NC0392121 | 85 | GW |
| LITTLE RIVER MHP | NC0392153 | 79 | GW |
| LINDSEY POINT S/D | NC4392153 | 76 | GW |
How Zebulon compares
Full North Carolina rankings →Zebulon's score of 46/100 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 Zebulon, NC
Wikipedia →Charlotte is the most populous city in the U.S. state of North Carolina. With a population of 874,579 at the 2020 census, it is the 14th-most populous city in the U.S., seventh-most populous city in the South, and second-most populous city in the Southeast. The Charlotte metropolitan area, with an estimated 2.88 million residents, is the 21st-largest metropolitan area in the U.S. The Charlotte metropolitan area is part of an 18-county combined statistical area with an estimated population of 3.47 million as of 2024. It is the county seat of Mecklenburg County.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Zebulon's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Johnston
Frequently asked questions
Is Zebulon, NC tap water safe to drink?
Zebulon's water quality earned a grade of D (46/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #342 out of 417 cities tested in North Carolina.
What contaminants are in Zebulon's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 531 violations are on record.
How is Zebulon'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 Zebulon?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Zebulon's water come from?
Zebulon's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 10 water systems serving approximately 1,669 residents.
What health violations has Zebulon's water system had?
Zebulon has 35 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in July 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 88 violations remain unresolved.
Is Zebulon's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Zebulon 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 531 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 Zebulon's water compare to other cities?
Zebulon ranks #342 out of 417 cities in North Carolina (better than 18% of state cities) and #14038 out of 15744 cities nationally (11th percentile). The grade of D reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.