A85/100
Frederick Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 143,519 residents · Maryland
What's In Frederick's Tap Water?
69
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
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2023 – April 20, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2023 – April 20, 2023Enforcement: 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
FORT DETRICK
Population Served
7,900
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MD0100011
FOUNTAINDALE SOUTH
Population Served
2,610
Water Source
Groundwater Under Influence of Surface Water
System ID
MD0100013
CITY OF FREDERICK
Population Served
54,000
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MD0100015
WATERSIDE
Population Served
1,509
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MD0100029
NEW DESIGN - FREDERICK COUNTY
Population Served
74,911
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MD0100030
SAM HILL ESTATES
Population Served
1,036
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MD0100040
KNOLLS OF WINDSOR
Population Served
1,553
Water Source
Groundwater Under Influence of Surface Water
System ID
MD0100041
Frequently Asked Questions About Frederick Water
Is Frederick tap water safe to drink?
Frederick, Maryland tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 73 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 Frederick's water?
Of the 73 contaminants tested in Frederick'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 Frederick have any water quality violations?
Yes, Frederick has 45 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MCL, MR, TT. 8 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Frederick?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Frederick 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 Frederick's tap water come from?
Frederick's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by FORT DETRICK and 6 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 143,519 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Frederick'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. Frederick'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 Frederick's water compare to other cities in Maryland?
Frederick's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Frederick 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 Frederick's water quality?
If you have concerns about Frederick'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 (FORT DETRICK) 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.