Is Charlottesville Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Yes, tap water in Charlottesville, Virginia, is safe to drink. The Charlottesville Water Resources system treats water from the South Fork Rivanna Reservoir and must meet federal and Virginia drinking water standards.

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Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water quality can still be affected by lead or other metals from older household plumbing. Run cold water briefly after periods of inactivity, and use a certified filter if your home has older pipes or fixtures.

Last checked: 2026-08-09

Source of Water in Charlottesville, United States

Charlottesville’s tap water comes from the Rivanna River watershed in central Virginia. The main storage reservoirs are South Fork Rivanna Reservoir and Ragged Mountain Reservoir.

Sugar Hollow Reservoir also supports the regional water supply and can feed Ragged Mountain Reservoir. The Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority treats the water before distributing it to Charlottesville and nearby Albemarle County.

Charlottesville Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Charlottesville are generally safe to use when they are connected to the municipal water system and properly maintained. The city’s drinking water is treated and tested to meet federal and Virginia safety standards.

Use fountains that are clean, functioning, and free of advisory or “do not drink” signs. Avoid any fountain with cloudy water, unusual odor, visible damage, or poor maintenance.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Charlottesville. 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.

Nearby Places

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 Charlottesville 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.