A82/100
Baytown Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 88,194 residents · Texas
What's In Baytown's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
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 to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – July 31, 2022Rule: Ground Water 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: July 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021Rule: Stage 1 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
CITY OF BAYTOWN
Population Served
86,004
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX1010003
HARRIS COUNTY FWSD 27
Population Served
2,190
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX1010261
Frequently Asked Questions About Baytown Water
Is Baytown tap water safe to drink?
Baytown, Texas tap water receives a grade of A (82/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Baytown's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Baytown's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Baytown have any water quality violations?
Yes, Baytown has 18 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include MR, Other, MON. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Baytown?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Baytown 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 Baytown's tap water come from?
Baytown's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CITY OF BAYTOWN and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 88,194 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Baytown'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. Baytown'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 Baytown's water compare to other cities in Texas?
Baytown's water quality score of 82/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Baytown among the better-performing water systems in Texas. Visit our Texas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Baytown's water quality?
If you have concerns about Baytown'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 (CITY OF BAYTOWN) 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.