Is Severn, MD Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B- — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
73.2/100
waterverge.com Severn, MD — Water Quality Report
Severn's drinking water received a grade of B- (73.2 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 2,426 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 5.3 ppb (90th percentile), which is within EPA limits but above recommended levels. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 17 violations on record, including 3 health-based violations. 14 remain unresolved.
What to know about Severn's water
Severn ranks #70 out of 107 cities in Maryland for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Severn relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
While lead levels are within EPA limits, they are above the recommended 5 ppb threshold that health organizations consider ideal. A point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
As a small community water system, Severn may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Severn, MD water safe to drink?
Severn's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B- (73.2/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 2,426 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Severn
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Severn's water quality assessment. Grade: B- (73.2/100).
1 health-based. Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4091). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3349). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Severn's water supply.
Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Severn's water system has 17 total violations on record, including 3 health-based violations. 14 remain unresolved. 2 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Anne Arundel County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1971. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Patapsco River, East Branch Herbert Run, Gwynns Falls, Sawmill Creek, South Fork Jabez Branch.
Where does Severn's water come from?
Severn's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 2,426 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Patapsco River (river), East Branch Herbert Run (river), Gwynns Falls (river), Sawmill Creek (river), South Fork Jabez Branch (river).
What Severn residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Severn's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Severn's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Severn
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Severn, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 63,101 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
GRACE DAVISON-CURTIS BAY WORKS BALTIMORE, MD21226 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 50,503 | 8.7 mi |
VIBRANTZ SPECIALTY PRODUCTS LLC BALTIMORE, MD21226 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 12,424 | 8.1 mi |
BRANDON SHORES & WAGNER COMPLEX CURTIS BAY, MD21226 | Ammonia | 154 | 8.8 mi |
GLOBAL BALTIMORE TERMINAL BALTIMORE, MD21226 | Toluene | 18 | 9.8 mi |
TATE ACCESS FLOORS INC. JESSUP, MD20794 | Zinc compounds | 2 | 4.5 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Severn
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- FORT GEORGE G MEADE3.8 mi
- CURTIS BAY COAST GUARD YARD8.0 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtAnne Arundel County is currently in D2 (severe drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
Anne Arundel County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1971. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Severn's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 5.3 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 2.08 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Severn compares by contaminant
Explore where Severn ranks among all Maryland cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Severn's water comes from
Severn's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by private ownership and serves approximately 2,426 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Severn
Severn is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Severn
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAKE VILLAGE TOWNHOMES | MD0020019 | 2,400 | GW |
| WOODLAND BEACH COMMUNITY ASSOC. | MD1021498 | 26 | GW |
How Severn compares
Full Maryland rankings →Severn's score of 73.2/100 is above the average of 60/100 among major Maryland cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Maryland rankings →About Severn, MD
Wikipedia →Severn is a census-designated place (CDP) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, United States. According to the 2020 U.S. census, the population of Severn is 57,118, a 22.6% increase from 44,231 in 2010. The zip code is 21144.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Severn's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Anne Arundel
Frequently asked questions
Is Severn, MD tap water safe to drink?
Severn's water quality earned a grade of B- (73.2/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #70 out of 107 cities tested in Maryland.
What contaminants are in Severn's water?
Lead was measured at 5.3 ppb (90th percentile). 17 violations are on record.
How is Severn's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Severn?
While lead levels are within EPA limits, a filter adds extra protection. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Severn's water come from?
Severn's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 2,426 residents.
What health violations has Severn's water system had?
Severn has 3 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 14 violations remain unresolved.
Is Severn's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Severn uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 17 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Severn's water compare to other cities?
Severn ranks #70 out of 107 cities in Maryland (better than 35% of state cities) and #10142 out of 15744 cities nationally (36th percentile). The grade of B- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.