F0/100
Elmwood Park Boro Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 20,374 residents · New Jersey
What's In Elmwood Park Boro's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.007 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: February 1, 2025 – February 12, 2025Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 2 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 9, 2024 – July 5, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 2 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 8, 2024 – July 5, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 2 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2023 – July 5, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 2 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 8, 2022 – July 5, 2025Rule: 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
ELMWOOD PARK WATER DEPT
Population Served
20,374
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ0211001
Frequently Asked Questions About Elmwood Park Boro Water
Is Elmwood Park Boro tap water safe to drink?
Elmwood Park Boro, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 72 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Elmwood Park Boro's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Elmwood Park Boro's water supply, the most notable include PFOA. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Elmwood Park Boro have any water quality violations?
Yes, Elmwood Park Boro has 72 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 12 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Elmwood Park Boro?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Elmwood Park Boro 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 Elmwood Park Boro's tap water come from?
Elmwood Park Boro's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by ELMWOOD PARK WATER DEPT. The system serves approximately 20,374 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Elmwood Park Boro'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. Elmwood Park Boro'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 Elmwood Park Boro's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Elmwood Park Boro'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 Elmwood Park Boro's water quality?
If you have concerns about Elmwood Park Boro'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 (ELMWOOD PARK WATER DEPT) 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.