D32/100
Tewksbury Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 33,842 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Tewksbury's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 610.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
2
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: June 1, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
TEWKSBURY WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
31,342
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MA3295000
TEWKSBURY HOSPITAL
Population Served
2,500
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MA3295001
Frequently Asked Questions About Tewksbury Water
Is Tewksbury tap water safe to drink?
Tewksbury, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of D (32/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 140 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Tewksbury's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Tewksbury's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Tewksbury have any water quality violations?
Yes, Tewksbury has 140 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Tewksbury?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Tewksbury 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 Tewksbury's tap water come from?
Tewksbury's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by TEWKSBURY WATER DEPARTMENT and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 33,842 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Tewksbury'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. Tewksbury'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 Tewksbury's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Tewksbury's water quality score of 32/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Massachusetts state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Tewksbury's water quality?
If you have concerns about Tewksbury'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 (TEWKSBURY 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.