PFAS in Norfolk, VA Drinking Water
PFAS data for Norfolk, Virginia · 298,051 residents · 24 ZIP codes
PFAS is regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act because of its potential health effects at elevated concentrations; for residents of Norfolk, Virginia, 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.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
PFAS in Norfolk Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Norfolk, Virginia drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0058 ppt — below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 298,051 residents across 24 ZIP codes in Norfolk.
Norfolk's overall water quality grade is B (80/100).
Is PFAS in Norfolk Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
PFAS Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | PFAS Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23501 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23502 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23503 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23504 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23505 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23506 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23507 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23508 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23509 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23510 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23511 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23513 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23514 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23515 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23517 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23518 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23519 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23523 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23529 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23551 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23501 | 0.0058 ppb | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23502 | 0.0058 ppb | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23503 | 0.0058 ppb | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23504 | 0.0058 ppb | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 23505 | 0.0058 ppb | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| ...19 more ZIP codes |
Average pfas level across Norfolk: 1.37 ppt
Health Effects of PFAS
- Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer
- Thyroid disease and immune system suppression
- Reproductive problems and reduced fertility
- Elevated cholesterol and liver effects
- Developmental effects in infants and children
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (2024).
How PFAS Gets Into Drinking Water
- Firefighting foam (AFFF) used at military bases and airports
- Industrial manufacturing (non-stick coatings, stain-resistant fabrics)
- Wastewater treatment plants that receive industrial discharge
- Landfill leachate from PFAS-containing consumer products
What to Do About PFAS in Norfolk Water
- Install a reverse osmosis system (most effective — removes 90%+ of PFAS)
- Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters remove some PFAS compounds
- Look for NSF 53 or NSF 58 certification specifically tested for PFAS
- Pitcher filters with activated carbon provide partial reduction
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for pfas removal.