F0/100
Dover Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 27,806 residents · New Jersey
What's In Dover's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.012 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.008 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
3
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 1 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 25, 2024 – December 12, 2024Rule: Consumer Confidence RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 11, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: August 1, 2024 – August 31, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
DOVER WATER COMMISSION
Population Served
27,806
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NJ1409001
Frequently Asked Questions About Dover Water
Is Dover tap water safe to drink?
Dover, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 345 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Dover's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Dover's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, PFOS, Lead (90th percentile). 2 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 Dover have any water quality violations?
Yes, Dover has 345 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, RPT. 10 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Dover?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Dover 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 Dover's tap water come from?
Dover's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by DOVER WATER COMMISSION. The system serves approximately 27,806 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Dover'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. Dover'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 Dover's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Dover's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. 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 Dover's water quality?
If you have concerns about Dover'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 (DOVER WATER COMMISSION) 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.