Is Virginia Beach Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Yes, tap water in Virginia Beach is generally safe to drink. The city treats its water and tests it regularly to meet or exceed federal and Virginia drinking water standards.

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Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water quality can temporarily change during a boil-water advisory, water-main break, or plumbing issue in a particular building. Older household plumbing may also contribute lead, so use cold water for drinking and cooking if concerned.

Last checked: 2026-08-31

United States is ranked as number 9 globally with a score of 96.4% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Virginia Beach, United States

Virginia Beach tap water primarily comes from Lake Gaston, a reservoir on the Roanoke River along the Virginia-North Carolina border. Water is transported through a roughly 76-mile pipeline to the City of Norfolk’s treatment facilities.

Norfolk treats the water before supplying it to Virginia Beach through the regional water system. Virginia Beach then distributes the treated drinking water through its own network of pipes to homes and businesses.

Virginia Beach Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Virginia Beach 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 health standards.

Avoid a fountain that is visibly damaged, dirty, stagnant, or marked out of service. Follow any posted boil-water or water-use advisory, since temporary maintenance or service issues can affect safety.

Drinking Water Map

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