Is Durban Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in Durban, South Africa, is treated and generally meets South African National Standards (SANS 241) for potable water. Municipal treatment plants use filtration and disinfection to ensure safety.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

However, localized issues like aging infrastructure or intermittent contamination can affect water quality. Residents are often advised to use additional home filtration or boil water during known advisories.

Overall, Durban tap water is considered safe for drinking by municipal standards, but verifying recent local water quality reports is recommended, especially after heavy rains or infrastructure work.

Last checked: 2025-10-15

South Africa is ranked as number 144 globally with a score of 25% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Durban, South Africa

Durban's main tap water sources include the Hazelmere Dam and Midmar Dam, supplying treated surface water to the city. These dams capture rainfall and river flow.

Additional supply comes from the Umgeni River, which is managed through several reservoirs and treatment plants. Water is treated to meet safety standards before distribution.

Groundwater sources supplement supplies in some areas, though surface water remains primary. The municipality manages these resources to ensure consistent water availability for Durban residents.

Durban Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Durban are connected to treated municipal water, generally meeting safety standards. However, maintenance varies, affecting water quality and cleanliness.

Users should consider potential risks from external contamination, such as dirt or biofilm buildup, which can occur on fountain surfaces and spouts over time.

For safest use, it is advisable to observe fountain cleanliness before drinking and use fountains in well-maintained public areas to minimize health risks.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Durban. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

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 Durban 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.