A92/100
Big Bear Lake Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 27,403 residents · California
What's In Big Bear Lake's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
This system has a clean compliance history.
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
DWP - FAWNSKIN
Population Served
1,271
Water Source
Groundwater Under Influence of Surface Water
System ID
CA3610022
BIG BEAR LAKE DWP - BIG BEAR SYSTEM
Population Served
26,132
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3610044
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Bear Lake Water
Is Big Bear Lake tap water safe to drink?
Big Bear Lake, California tap water receives a grade of A (92/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 32 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Big Bear Lake's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Big Bear Lake's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Big Bear Lake have any water quality violations?
Yes, Big Bear Lake has 3 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 1998. Violation types include MCL, MR. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Big Bear Lake?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Big Bear Lake is recommended. 1 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Big Bear Lake's tap water come from?
Big Bear Lake's drinking water is sourced from groundwater under influence of surface water and supplied by DWP - FAWNSKIN and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 27,403 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Big Bear Lake'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. Big Bear Lake'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 Big Bear Lake's water compare to other cities in California?
Big Bear Lake's water quality score of 92/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Big Bear Lake 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 Big Bear Lake's water quality?
If you have concerns about Big Bear Lake'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 (DWP - FAWNSKIN) 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.