This page provides information about the use of fluoride in Union County's drinking water. Some water utilities across the country choose to add fluoride to their drinking water as an additive to promote strong teeth; other water utilities choose not to put fluoride in their water. The addition of fluoride is not required by state and federal guidelines, so the practice of fluoridation is a decision made by local government and water utilities. 

On February 19, 2024, the Union County Board of Commissioners voted to prohibit the addition of fluoride in drinking water at water treatment plants owned and operated by Union County. This action prohibits the use of fluoride at our Yadkin River Water Treatment Plant, which serves approximately one-third of our customers.

Most customers of Union County Water receive drinking water from the Catawba River Water Treatment Plant, which is co-owned by Union County and our partners in Lancaster County, S.C. Customers who receive water from the Catawba River Water Treatment Plant will continue to receive fluoridated water, unless our partners with Lancaster County choose to also prohibit the addition of fluoride in the water treatment process. Some customers may receive water from both plants throughout the year; the source of water in some areas of our system can vary seasonally and over time, based on system demands, maintenance requirements and other factors.   

Our water treatment processes continues to meet or exceed all state and federal standards for water quality. We routinely test our water at multiple points throughout the distribution system for safety and quality assurance, as described in our Annual Water Quality Reports; each of these reports references the use of fluoride. 

Where Does My Water Come From?

To determine which water treatment plant provides water service at your home or workplace, view the maps below, or to search for a specific address, use this interactive map.

• Areas shaded in blue are served by the Catawba River Water Treatment Plant; as referenced above, water from this plant contains fluoride.
• Areas shaded in orange are served by the Yadkin River Water Treatment Plant; as referenced above, water from this plant does not contain fluoride.  

Please note that the boundaries on these maps are subject to change, based on seasonal and operational needs. The maps on this page are provided to show which plant typically serves your area. However, our system is designed to ensure reliable continuity of service so that all customers receive clean drinking water. Because of how our system is designed, Union County Water customers may receive water from either the Catawba River Water Treatment Plant or the Yadkin River Water Treatment Plant. The sources and treatment processes of our drinking water are described in detail each year in our Annual Water Quality Reports.