C45/100
Norwell Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 11,495 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Norwell's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
4 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.009 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.007 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 320.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2022 – September 30, 2022Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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
NORWELL WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
11,495
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MA4219000
Frequently Asked Questions About Norwell Water
Is Norwell tap water safe to drink?
Norwell, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of C (45/100), which is considered fair. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 13 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Norwell's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Norwell's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, PFOS, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Norwell have any water quality violations?
Yes, Norwell has 13 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, MON, MCL. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Norwell?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Norwell is recommended. 2 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 Norwell's tap water come from?
Norwell's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by NORWELL WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 11,495 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Norwell'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. Norwell'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 Norwell's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Norwell's water quality score of 45/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Massachusetts state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Norwell's water quality?
If you have concerns about Norwell'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 (NORWELL WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.