Uranium
radionuclide
Erosion of natural uranium deposits; most common in groundwater in the West and Northeast.
EPA regulatory status
Legal limit (MCL)
30 ug/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 ug/L
MCL 30 ug/L (micrograms per liter), effective Dec 8 2003. MCLG = 0.
Health effects
Long-term exposure is associated with kidney toxicity and an increased risk of cancer.
This is general public-health information, not medical advice — consult your physician with any health concerns.
National violations
57,976
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 57,976 violations of Uranium's rule nationally.
How to remove Uranium
anion exchange
NSF/ANSI 53
Frequently asked questions
What is Uranium?
Uranium is a radionuclide regulated in US drinking water. Erosion of natural uranium deposits; most common in groundwater in the West and Northeast.
What is the legal limit for Uranium in drinking water?
MCL 30 ug/L (micrograms per liter), effective Dec 8 2003. MCLG = 0.
What health effects does Uranium have?
Long-term exposure is associated with kidney toxicity and an increased risk of cancer.
How many violations of Uranium limits are on record nationally?
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 57,976 violations of Uranium's rule nationally.
How do I remove Uranium from my water?
Filter technologies certified to reduce Uranium include: reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58), anion exchange (NSF/ANSI 53). Look for a filter independently certified against the specific NSF/ANSI standard for this contaminant — general "reduces contaminants" marketing claims are not the same as a contaminant-specific certification.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations · Data as of 2026-07-16