Is Bakersfield Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in Bakersfield, California, meets all U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for safety and quality. The local water utility regularly tests for contaminants.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Bakersfield sources water from the Kern River and groundwater, treated to remove harmful substances and disinfected to eliminate pathogens. Consumer Confidence Reports show compliance.

Residents generally consider Bakersfield tap water safe for drinking. Those with specific health concerns should use filters or bottled water after consulting local advisories.

Last checked: 2025-11-04

United States is ranked as number 15 globally with a score of 96.2% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Bakersfield, United States

Bakersfield’s tap water primarily comes from the Kern River, surface water treated at local facilities. It accounts for a significant portion of the supply.

Groundwater from local wells is another main source, drawn from aquifers beneath the region, complementing surface water supplies especially during dry periods.

Water treatment plants in Bakersfield treat both surface and groundwater to meet safety standards before distribution to residents for consumption and daily use.

Bakersfield Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Bakersfield receive treated water meeting EPA safety standards. They are generally safe for drinking under normal maintenance conditions.

Regular municipal maintenance ensures fountains are clean and free from contamination. However, individual fountain conditions can vary, so use discretion if a fountain appears unclean.

Users with weakened immune systems or specific health concerns may prefer bottled water or personal filters to reduce any minimal risk from public fountains.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Bakersfield. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Bakersfield is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.