Is New Orleans Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in New Orleans meets U.S. EPA safety standards. The Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans regularly tests and treats water to ensure potability.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water is sourced primarily from the Mississippi River, treated with disinfection, filtration, and corrosion control. Lead levels are monitored to stay below regulatory limits.

Occasional boil water advisories may occur after infrastructure issues or storms. Generally, tap water in New Orleans is safe to drink for most residents.

Last checked: 2025-10-15

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 New Orleans, United States

The main source of tap water in New Orleans is the Mississippi River. The city relies on this surface water for its municipal supply.

Water is pumped from the river to treatment plants where it undergoes filtration, disinfection, and other purification processes before distribution.

Groundwater is not a significant source for New Orleans' tap water. The focus remains on treating and distributing Mississippi River water safely.

New Orleans Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in New Orleans receive water from the municipal supply, which meets EPA safety standards. Generally, the water is treated and safe.

However, fountain cleanliness and maintenance vary. Risks can increase if fountains are poorly maintained or have damaged components.

For safety, use fountains with clear water flow and no visible contamination. When in doubt, using bottled water is advisable.

Drinking Water Map

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