Columbia, Maryland: Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink?
2026 EPA water quality data for 13 community water systems serving 288,578+ residents. See violations, PFAS results, lead test results, and safety grades — free.
Is Columbia Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Based on the latest EPA data, Columbia tap water meets all federal drinking water standards. All 13 tested systems have received a safety grade of A or B, with no active health-based violations. 1 system has been tested for PFAS (forever chemicals).
Columbia Water Quality Overview
Columbia, Maryland is served by 13 community water systems providing water to approximately 288,578 residents. These systems draw from groundwater (12), surface water purchased (1) sources. Columbia water systems have recorded 10 health-based violations in their history, though none are currently active. Including monitoring and reporting violations, there are 56 total violations on record.
Find Your Water System
Search by ZIP code to find your exact water provider and see its full EPA report.
All 13 water systems in Columbia
Looking for water quality data across the whole state? See our full Maryland tap water safety report covering Maryland’s EPA-regulated water systems.
Columbia Drinking Water: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbia, Maryland tap water safe to drink?
Based on the latest EPA data, Columbia tap water meets all federal drinking water standards. All 13 tested systems have received a safety grade of A or B, with no active health-based violations. 1 system has been tested for PFAS (forever chemicals).
How many water utilities serve Columbia, Maryland?
13 community water systems serve Columbia, Maryland, providing water to approximately 288,578 people. Different neighborhoods may be served by different utilities. Enter your ZIP code at the top to find your specific provider.
Does Columbia tap water have lead?
Lead in drinking water typically enters from old pipes and fixtures inside homes and buildings, not from the treatment plant. The EPA requires water systems to monitor for lead under the Lead and Copper Rule. Click any water system above to see its most recent 90th-percentile lead test results. Homes built before 1986 are most likely to have lead plumbing components.
What contaminants have been found in Columbia drinking water?
EPA violation records for Columbia water systems are listed on each utility's report page. Common regulated contaminants include disinfection byproducts (TTHMs, HAA5), coliform bacteria, nitrates, and lead. Click any utility above to see its full violation history going back 10 years.
How do I find out which water company serves my address in Columbia?
Enter your Columbia ZIP code in the search box at the top of this page. ClearWater will identify the specific water system serving your area and show you its EPA violation history, lead test results, and an overall safety grade. You can also check your water bill or your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR).