A94/100
Barstow Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,126 residents · California
What's In Barstow's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – July 1, 2022Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
USMC NEBO (BARSTOW)
Population Served
1,126
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
CA3610701
Frequently Asked Questions About Barstow Water
Is Barstow tap water safe to drink?
Barstow, California tap water receives a grade of A (94/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Barstow's water?
1 contaminants were tested in Barstow's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Barstow have any water quality violations?
Yes, Barstow has 2 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include MR, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Barstow?
Barstow water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Barstow's tap water come from?
Barstow's drinking water is sourced from purchased groundwater and supplied by USMC NEBO (BARSTOW). The system serves approximately 1,126 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Barstow's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Barstow's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Barstow's water compare to other cities in California?
Barstow's water quality score of 94/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Barstow among the better-performing water systems in California. Visit our California state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Barstow's water quality?
If you have concerns about Barstow's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (USMC NEBO (BARSTOW)) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.