A86/100
Brown City Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,316 residents · Michigan
What's In Brown City's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 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: January 1, 2023 – December 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: January 1, 2023 – December 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
BROWN CITY
Population Served
1,316
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0000930
Frequently Asked Questions About Brown City Water
Is Brown City tap water safe to drink?
Brown City, Michigan tap water receives a grade of A (86/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none 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 Brown City's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Brown City's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Brown City have any water quality violations?
Yes, Brown City has 7 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Brown City?
Brown City 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Brown City's tap water come from?
Brown City's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BROWN CITY. The system serves approximately 1,316 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Brown City'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. Brown City'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 Brown City's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Brown City's water quality score of 86/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Brown City among the better-performing water systems in Michigan. Visit our Michigan state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Brown City's water quality?
If you have concerns about Brown City'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 (BROWN CITY) 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.