If you’ve looked into gravity-fed water filters, chances are you’ve come across Berkey — they’re kind of a big deal. No electricity, long-lasting filters, and a cult following that swears by them.
But if you live in California, you might’ve noticed they’re strangely… unavailable.
No, Berkey filters aren’t banned. They just don’t meet California’s extra-stringent certification rules — and that’s where the roadblock begins. Let’s break it all down and show you what your options actually are.
âś… Quick Takeaways
- Berkey filters aren’t banned, but they’re not certified to California’s standards
- California requires NSF certification for filters used in homes
- Berkey refuses certification to protect its proprietary design
- Only outdoor-use Berkey models like the Travel and Light are legal to sell in CA
- Many still use Berkey filters by purchasing through workarounds or out-of-state sellers
🧪 So… Why Isn’t Berkey Sold in California?
It mostly comes down to paperwork and privacy.
Since 2009, California has required all in-home water filters to meet strict health standards — usually proven through NSF/ANSI certification. On paper, that’s a good thing.
But Berkey said “no thanks.”
Why? Submitting for certification means handing over the details of how the system works — including their unique filtration design. And while regulators say that info stays private, Berkey wasn’t willing to gamble with their proprietary process (which they’ve been guarding for decades).
So even though their filters might perform as well or better than certified systems, they’re still considered “unapproved” for in-home use in California.
⚠️ Quick heads-up: This only applies to filters sold or labeled for indoor residential use — and yes, people have found ways around it.
🔍 Can You Trust a Filter That’s Not Certified?
Fair question — and Berkey knows it.
To build trust without certification, they’ve had their filters tested by multiple EPA-accredited labs, including Spectrum Labs, Louisiana University, and others. The results? Impressive. Their systems often exceed the standards set by both NSF/ANSI 42 (aesthetic contaminants) and 53 (health-related contaminants).
Berkey even publishes those lab reports for anyone to read — something most certified brands never do.
🤓 Want the full scoop on how they perform? Here’s our breakdown of the Big Berkey system.
Sure, some buyers feel uneasy without a seal. But others say the performance speaks for itself.
đźšš Can You Still Get a Berkey in California?
You can — just not the full-sized models… at least, not officially.
California’s certification rules don’t apply to outdoor or emergency-use filters, which means two Berkey models are totally legal to buy in-state:
🏕️ California-Friendly Options
- Berkey Light – Lightweight, BPA-free plastic, and made for off-grid or emergency use. It holds 2.75 gallons and includes two Black Berkey filters. Great for camping… or your countertop.
- Berkey Travel – The stainless steel cousin of the Big Berkey. It’s portable, compact (1.5-gallon capacity), and filters up to 2.75 gallons per hour. RVers love it, and it’s easy to stash when not in use.
💡 Bonus: Both models use the same powerful filters as the Big Berkey — so performance is nearly identical.
🕵️‍♂️ But What About the Big Berkey?
Some Californians get creative — ordering through friends in other states or having them shipped as “gifts.” (We’re not telling you to break the rules… just pointing out that private sales aren’t regulated.)
You can’t legally buy one marketed for indoor use from a retailer in California — but owning one? That’s a gray area nobody’s knocking on doors about.
⚖️ Berkey Filters: Pros & Cons at a Glance
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
|---|---|
| Removes up to 99.99% of viruses, bacteria, and heavy metals | Not NSF certified, so not approved for sale in CA |
| Requires no plumbing or electricity | Doesn’t remove every possible contaminant (like some pharmaceuticals) |
| Long filter life — up to 6,000 gallons per set | Initial setup takes a little patience |
| Ideal for emergencies, off-grid use, or travel | Replacement filters can be pricey over time |
🔎 Should You Buy a Berkey Filter?
Berkey’s not for everyone — but for the right buyer, it’s hard to beat. Here’s what to keep in mind before hitting “Buy Now”:
- Performance: Independently tested to remove 200+ contaminants — including heavy metals and bacteria — with no plumbing required.
- Cost: Upfront price is higher than some pitchers or under-sink filters, but long-term value is excellent thanks to low maintenance and long filter life.
- Certification: If you prefer third-party validation, you might feel safer with an NSF certified water filter. But Berkey fans say real-world performance is what matters most.
- California Status: You can’t buy full-size models in-state, but outdoor-friendly versions like the Travel and Light are fair game.
🧠Final Thoughts
California’s filter laws were made with good intentions — but sometimes, good products get caught in the red tape. And they’re not alone: Iowa also now limits sales to certified systems — a sign that stricter regulation might become more common.
Berkey might not carry the NSF badge, but its performance, transparency, and track record speak for themselves. If you’re okay without the official seal, it’s still one of the most trusted systems for off-grid, travel, and emergency use.
✅ Just make sure whichever system you choose fits your needs, your budget — and yes, your zip code.
165 people found this helpful. Was this guide helpful to you? 
