A95/100
Bel Air Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,447 residents · Maryland
What's In Bel Air's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: March 1, 2023 – March 31, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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
MARYLAND AMERICAN WATER--SEVERN SYSTEM
Population Served
5,447
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MD0020027
Frequently Asked Questions About Bel Air Water
Is Bel Air tap water safe to drink?
Bel Air, Maryland tap water receives a grade of A (95/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 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 Bel Air's water?
31 contaminants were tested in Bel Air's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Bel Air have any water quality violations?
Yes, Bel Air has 5 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MON, Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Bel Air?
Bel Air 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 Bel Air's tap water come from?
Bel Air's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by MARYLAND AMERICAN WATER--SEVERN SYSTEM. The system serves approximately 5,447 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Bel Air'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. Bel Air'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 Bel Air's water compare to other cities in Maryland?
Bel Air's water quality score of 95/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Bel Air among the better-performing water systems in Maryland. Visit our Maryland state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Bel Air's water quality?
If you have concerns about Bel Air'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 (MARYLAND AMERICAN WATER--SEVERN SYSTEM) 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.