D30/100
Fairfield Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 7,400 residents · New Jersey
What's In Fairfield's Tap Water?
31
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
5
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: February 29, 2024 – May 31, 2024Rule: 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: February 29, 2024 – May 31, 2024Rule: 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: December 1, 2023 – February 28, 2024Rule: 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: December 1, 2023 – February 28, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 30, 2021 – June 20, 2022Rule: 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
FAIRFIELD WATER DEPT
Population Served
7,400
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ0707001
Frequently Asked Questions About Fairfield Water
Is Fairfield tap water safe to drink?
Fairfield, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of D (30/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 54 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Fairfield's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Fairfield'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 Fairfield have any water quality violations?
Yes, Fairfield has 54 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Fairfield?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Fairfield 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 Fairfield's tap water come from?
Fairfield's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by FAIRFIELD WATER DEPT. The system serves approximately 7,400 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Fairfield'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. Fairfield'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 Fairfield's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Fairfield's water quality score of 30/100 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 Fairfield's water quality?
If you have concerns about Fairfield'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 (FAIRFIELD 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.