B60/100
Califon Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,401 residents · New Jersey
What's In Califon's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 30, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – July 26, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 11, 2023 – June 28, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 30, 2021Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – September 30, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – September 30, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
HAMPTON BOROUGH WATER DEPART
Population Served
1,401
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NJ1013001
Frequently Asked Questions About Califon Water
Is Califon tap water safe to drink?
Califon, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of B (60/100), which is considered good. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Califon's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Califon's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Califon have any water quality violations?
Yes, Califon has 33 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, Other, RPT. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Califon?
Califon water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Califon's tap water come from?
Califon's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by HAMPTON BOROUGH WATER DEPART. The system serves approximately 1,401 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Califon'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. Califon'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 Califon's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Califon's water quality score of 60/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our New Jersey state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Califon's water quality?
If you have concerns about Califon'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 (HAMPTON BOROUGH WATER DEPART) 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.