C58/100
New Haven Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 418,900 residents · Connecticut
What's In New Haven's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 1476.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2020.
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
418,900
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CT0930011
Frequently Asked Questions About New Haven Water
Is New Haven tap water safe to drink?
New Haven, Connecticut tap water receives a grade of C (58/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 31 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in New Haven's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in New Haven's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does New Haven have any water quality violations?
Yes, New Haven has 31 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2020. Violation types include MR, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in New Haven?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in New Haven is recommended. 1 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does New Haven's tap water come from?
New Haven's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY. The system serves approximately 418,900 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is New Haven's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. New Haven's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does New Haven's water compare to other cities in Connecticut?
New Haven's water quality score of 58/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Connecticut state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about New Haven's water quality?
If you have concerns about New Haven's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.