Is Knoxville Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Knoxville, Tennessee tap water meets all EPA standards under the Safe Drinking Water Act. It undergoes regular testing for contaminants. Water quality reports are publicly available.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

The city uses surface water from the Tennessee River, treated with filtration and disinfection processes to ensure safety. Occasional advisories may occur but are promptly communicated.

Consumers can refer to Knoxville Utilities Board’s annual water quality report for detailed data. Generally, the tap water is safe to drink unless otherwise noted by local authorities.

Last checked: 2025-12-02

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 Knoxville, United States

Knoxville's primary tap water source is the Tennessee River. This surface water undergoes treatment before distribution. It supplies most of the city’s residential and commercial needs.

Additionally, groundwater wells supplement Knoxville's water supply, providing added capacity and reliability. These wells are monitored regularly to maintain water quality standards.

The Knoxville Utilities Board manages sourcing and treatment to ensure safe, clean drinking water. Water sources are protected to prevent contamination risks.

Knoxville Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Knoxville receive treated tap water that meets EPA safety standards. They are generally safe for use by the public.

Local authorities conduct regular maintenance and sanitation to reduce contamination risks in public fountains. However, occasional advisories may temporarily restrict use.

Users should consider general hygiene practices when using public fountains. If unsure, bottled or filtered water is a safe alternative.

Drinking Water Map

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