D23/100
Clifton Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 351,143 residents · New Jersey
What's In Clifton's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.010 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2023 – August 1, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – September 15, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Public notification violation
When: July 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: Ground Water 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
PASSAIC VALLEY WC LODI WD
Population Served
24,136
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ0231001
PVWC-NORTH ARLINGTON
Population Served
15,392
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ0239001
PASSAIC VALLEY WATER COMMISSION
Population Served
310,483
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NJ1605002
PASSAIC VALLEY W C HIGH CREST
Population Served
1,132
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ1615003
Frequently Asked Questions About Clifton Water
Is Clifton tap water safe to drink?
Clifton, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of D (23/100), which is considered poor. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 132 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Clifton's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Clifton'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 Clifton have any water quality violations?
Yes, Clifton has 132 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include Other, MR, TT. 29 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Clifton?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Clifton 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 Clifton's tap water come from?
Clifton's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by PASSAIC VALLEY WC LODI WD and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 351,143 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Clifton'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. Clifton'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 Clifton's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Clifton's water quality score of 23/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our New Jersey state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Clifton's water quality?
If you have concerns about Clifton'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 (PASSAIC VALLEY WC LODI WD) 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.