C44/100
Lakewood Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 27,614 residents · New Jersey
What's In Lakewood's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.009 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2024 – July 17, 2024Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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: December 1, 2021 – December 15, 2021Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: 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: October 1, 2021 – October 15, 2021Rule: Stage 1 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: October 1, 2021 – November 15, 2021Rule: Stage 1 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: October 1, 2021 – December 15, 2021Rule: Stage 1 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
LAKEWOOD TWP MUA
Population Served
27,614
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ1514002
Frequently Asked Questions About Lakewood Water
Is Lakewood tap water safe to drink?
Lakewood, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of C (44/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 37 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Lakewood's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Lakewood's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Lakewood have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lakewood has 37 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lakewood?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Lakewood 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 Lakewood's tap water come from?
Lakewood's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by LAKEWOOD TWP MUA. The system serves approximately 27,614 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Lakewood'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. Lakewood'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 Lakewood's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Lakewood's water quality score of 44/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our New Jersey state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Lakewood's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lakewood'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 (LAKEWOOD TWP MUA) 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.