C48/100
Bethlehem Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 122,959 residents · Pennsylvania
What's In Bethlehem's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: August 1, 2025 – August 31, 2025Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: 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: April 1, 2022 – June 30, 2022Rule: 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: April 1, 2022 – June 30, 2022Rule: 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
LOWER SAUCON AUTHORITY
Population Served
5,700
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA3480027
CITY OF BETHLEHEM
Population Served
117,259
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA3480046
Frequently Asked Questions About Bethlehem Water
Is Bethlehem tap water safe to drink?
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania tap water receives a grade of C (48/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 83 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Bethlehem's water?
76 contaminants were tested in Bethlehem's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Bethlehem have any water quality violations?
Yes, Bethlehem has 83 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, RPT, TT. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Bethlehem?
Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem's tap water come from?
Bethlehem's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by LOWER SAUCON AUTHORITY and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 122,959 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Bethlehem'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. Bethlehem'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 Bethlehem's water compare to other cities in Pennsylvania?
Bethlehem's water quality score of 48/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Pennsylvania state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Bethlehem's water quality?
If you have concerns about Bethlehem'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 (LOWER SAUCON AUTHORITY) 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.