How much lead is in Tarboro water?

The maximum detected level of lead in Tarboro water is 13 ppb. The EPA limit is 15 ppb (action level). See the ZIP code table above for area-specific levels.

Detected Lead

Lead in Tarboro, NC Drinking Water

Q: Is lead in Tarboro water safe?

Lead was detected in Tarboro water at 13 ppb, below the EPA limit of 15 ppb (action level). Check ZIP-level data on this page for your specific area.

Lead data for Tarboro, North Carolina · 26,879 residents · 1 ZIP code

Lead is regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act because of its potential health effects at elevated concentrations; for residents of Tarboro, North Carolina, the relevant fact is that it has shown up in recent EPA compliance samples — point-of-use filtration is one option residents research, alongside reviewing the utility's published treatment data.

13 ppb

Max Level Detected

13 ppb

Average Level

15 ppb (action level)

EPA action level

High

Health Risk

Reverse Osmosis or NSF 53 Carbon Block

Best Filter Method

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Lead in Tarboro Tap Water

Lead has been detected in Tarboro, North Carolina drinking water at a maximum level of 13 ppb — below the EPA action level of 15 ppb (action level).

This analysis covers 26,879 residents across 1 ZIP code in Tarboro.

Tarboro's overall water quality grade is D (45/100).

Is Lead in Tarboro Water Safe?

Lead was detected in Tarboro water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA action level may not be protective enough — the CDC states there is no safe level of lead for children.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter can reduce lead levels further.

Lead Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code	Lead Level	EPA Limit	Status
27886	13 ppb	15 ppb (action level)	OK

Average lead level across Tarboro: 13 ppb

Health Effects of Lead

Brain development delays and reduced IQ in children
Behavioral problems and learning disabilities
High blood pressure and kidney damage in adults
Increased risk of premature birth in pregnant women

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR/LCRI).

How Lead Gets Into Drinking Water

Corrosion of lead service lines (pipes connecting water main to home)
Lead solder in copper plumbing joints (pre-1986 homes)
Brass fixtures and faucets manufactured before 2014
Stagnant water that sits in lead-containing pipes overnight

What to Do About Lead in Tarboro Water

Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.

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