Is Waldorf, MD Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded D, with 122 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
45/100
waterverge.com Waldorf, MD — Water Quality Report
Waldorf's drinking water received a grade of D (45 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 18 water systems serve approximately 3,332 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 2.4 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 282 violations on record, including 8 health-based violations. 122 remain unresolved.
What to know about Waldorf's water
Waldorf ranks #97 out of 107 cities in Maryland for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Waldorf 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.
The system has seen 28 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Waldorf, MD water safe to drink?
Waldorf's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of D (45/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 18 water systems serve approximately 3,332 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Waldorf
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Waldorf's water quality assessment. Grade: D (45/100).
Contaminants: Arsenic.
Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS.
1 health-based. Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS.
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 Waldorf's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
Waldorf's water system has 282 total violations on record, including 8 health-based violations. 122 remain unresolved. 28 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Charles County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1972. 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 Piscataway Creek, Mattawoman Creek, Zekiah Swamp Run.
Where does Waldorf's water come from?
Waldorf's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 18 water systems serving approximately 3,332 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Piscataway Creek (river), Mattawoman Creek (river), Zekiah Swamp Run (river).
What Waldorf residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Waldorf'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.
Waldorf'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 Waldorf
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Waldorf, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
SMO BRYANS ROAD PLANT BRYANS ROAD, MD20616 | — | — | 8.2 mi |
SMO LA PLATA PLANT LA PLATA, MD20646 | — | — | 6.2 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Waldorf
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.
- BRANDYWINE DRMO7.3 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtCalvert 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
Charles County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1972. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
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. | 2.4 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Waldorf compares by contaminant
Explore where Waldorf ranks among all Maryland cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Waldorf's water comes from
Waldorf'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 3,332 people through 18 water systems.
Water bodies near Waldorf
Waldorf is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Waldorf
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| CHARLES COUNTY GARDENS WATER | MD0080008 | 551 | GW |
| KINGS MANOR - WHITE PLAINS WATER CO, INC | MD0080024 | 372 | GW |
| CALVERT BEACH - DECATUR STREET | MD0040024 | 350 | GW |
| POMUNK WATER COMPANY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM | MD0080084 | 340 | GWP |
| WESTERN SHORES | MD0040016 | 200 | GW |
| RED HILL WATER COMPANY, INC. | MD0080040 | 200 | GW |
| OAK HILL WATER COMPANY, LLC | MD0080034 | 180 | GW |
| POMFRET ESTATES - UTILCO, INC. | MD0080037 | 150 | GW |
| MOUNT PLEASANT WATER CO., INC. | MD0180009 | 150 | GW |
| PINE HILL WATER COMPANY | MD0080036 | 140 | GW |
| TRIMAC WATER COMPANY - FOREST PARK | MD0080013 | 139 | GW |
| POMONKEY WATER COMPANY - FORD HEIGHTS | MD0080012 | 125 | GW |
| NEWTOWN ESTATES - TIP HILL WATER CO. | MD0080031 | 110 | GW |
| CALVERT BEACH / FOREST TRAIL | MD0040020 | 100 | GW |
| BELLEWOOD WATER ASSOCIATION | MD0080006 | 75 | GW |
| HAWTHORNE WATER SUPPLY, INC | MD0080018 | 60 | GW |
| WEST WHITE PLAINS | MD0080051 | 50 | GW |
| THUNDERBIRD APARTMENTS | MD1080029 | 40 | GW |
How Waldorf compares
Full Maryland rankings →Waldorf's score of 45/100 is below the average of 60/100 among major Maryland cities. It outscores 5 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Maryland rankings →About Waldorf, MD
Wikipedia →Waldorf is a census-designated place in Charles County, Maryland, United States. Located 23 miles (37 km) south-southeast of Washington, D.C., Waldorf is part of Southern Maryland. Its population was 81,410 at the 2020 census. Waldorf has experienced dramatic growth, increasing its population 16-fold from fewer than 5,000 residents in 1980 to its current population. It is now the largest commercial and residential area in Southern Maryland as well as a major suburb in the Washington metropolitan area.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Waldorf's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Charles
Frequently asked questions
Is Waldorf, MD tap water safe to drink?
Waldorf's water quality earned a grade of D (45/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #97 out of 107 cities tested in Maryland.
What contaminants are in Waldorf's water?
Lead was measured at 2.4 ppb (90th percentile). 282 violations are on record.
How is Waldorf'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 Waldorf?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Waldorf's water come from?
Waldorf's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 18 water systems serving approximately 3,332 residents.
What health violations has Waldorf's water system had?
Waldorf has 8 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 122 violations remain unresolved.
Is Waldorf's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Waldorf 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 282 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 Waldorf's water compare to other cities?
Waldorf ranks #97 out of 107 cities in Maryland (better than 9% of state cities) and #14257 out of 15744 cities nationally (9th percentile). The grade of D reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.