C53/100
Berlin Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 22,335 residents · Maryland
What's In Berlin's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2023 – August 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2023 – August 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
TOWN OF BERLIN
Population Served
4,500
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MD0230001
OCEAN PINES
Population Served
11,890
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MD0230005
MYSTIC HARBOUR
Population Served
5,945
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MD0230011
Frequently Asked Questions About Berlin Water
Is Berlin tap water safe to drink?
Berlin, Maryland tap water receives a grade of C (53/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 123 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Berlin's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Berlin's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Berlin have any water quality violations?
Yes, Berlin has 123 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Berlin?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Berlin 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 Berlin's tap water come from?
Berlin's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by TOWN OF BERLIN and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 22,335 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Berlin'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. Berlin'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 Berlin's water compare to other cities in Maryland?
Berlin's water quality score of 53/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Maryland state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Berlin's water quality?
If you have concerns about Berlin'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 (TOWN OF BERLIN) 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.