A85/100
Highland Lakes Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,517 residents · New Jersey
What's In Highland Lakes's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Public notification violation
When: July 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: 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
VEOLIA WATER NEW JERSEY VERNON VALLEY
Population Served
5,517
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NJ1922026
Frequently Asked Questions About Highland Lakes Water
Is Highland Lakes tap water safe to drink?
Highland Lakes, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 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 Highland Lakes's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Highland Lakes'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 Highland Lakes have any water quality violations?
Yes, Highland Lakes has 8 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include TT, MR. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Highland Lakes?
Highland Lakes 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 Highland Lakes's tap water come from?
Highland Lakes's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by VEOLIA WATER NEW JERSEY VERNON VALLEY. The system serves approximately 5,517 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Highland Lakes'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. Highland Lakes'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 Highland Lakes's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Highland Lakes's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Highland Lakes among the better-performing water systems in New Jersey. Visit our New Jersey state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Highland Lakes's water quality?
If you have concerns about Highland Lakes'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 (VEOLIA WATER NEW JERSEY VERNON VALLEY) 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.