D25/100
Emmitsburg Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,300 residents · Maryland
What's In Emmitsburg's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.64 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (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: June 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2024 – May 31, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2024 – April 30, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: March 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: February 1, 2024 – February 29, 2024Rule: 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
TOWN OF EMMITSBURG
Population Served
2,400
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MD0100010
MOUNT SAINT MARYS UNIVERSITY
Population Served
1,900
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MD0100019
Frequently Asked Questions About Emmitsburg Water
Is Emmitsburg tap water safe to drink?
Emmitsburg, Maryland tap water receives a grade of D (25/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 81 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Emmitsburg's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Emmitsburg'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 Emmitsburg have any water quality violations?
Yes, Emmitsburg has 81 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MON, MR, Other. 44 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Emmitsburg?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Emmitsburg 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 Emmitsburg's tap water come from?
Emmitsburg's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by TOWN OF EMMITSBURG and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 4,300 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Emmitsburg'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. Emmitsburg'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 Emmitsburg's water compare to other cities in Maryland?
Emmitsburg's water quality score of 25/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Maryland state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Emmitsburg's water quality?
If you have concerns about Emmitsburg'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 EMMITSBURG) 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.