Is Charleston Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in Charleston, South Carolina, is generally safe to drink. Charleston Water System treats and tests its water to meet federal and state drinking water standards.

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Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water quality can be temporarily affected by a boil water advisory, service interruption, or plumbing in an older building. If your property has older plumbing, use cold water for drinking and cooking and consider testing for lead.

Last checked: 2026-08-31

United States is ranked as number 15 globally with a score of 96.2% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Charleston, United States

Charleston’s tap water comes primarily from the Bushy Park Reservoir in Berkeley County. The reservoir is supplied by the Cooper River.

Charleston Water System treats this surface water at the Hanahan Water Treatment Plant before distributing it through the city’s water system. The treatment process removes particles, microorganisms, and other contaminants to meet drinking water standards.

Charleston Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Charleston are generally safe to use when connected to the municipal water system and properly maintained. The drinking water is treated and routinely tested to meet federal and South Carolina safety standards.

Avoid a fountain marked out of service or showing visible damage, dirt, or stagnant water. Do not use one during a boil-water advisory unless the water has been boiled as directed.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Charleston. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Charleston is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.