D30/100
Newton Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 19,635 residents · New Jersey
What's In Newton's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.60 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 11, 2023 – December 8, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: 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: January 1, 2022 – June 30, 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
CLEMENTON WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
5,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NJ0411001
SWEDESBORO WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
2,824
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NJ0817001
CEDAR GLEN LAKES WATER C
Population Served
2,126
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NJ1518002
ELMER BORO W DEPT
Population Served
1,385
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NJ1702001
NEWTON WATER & SEWER UTILITY
Population Served
8,300
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NJ1915001
Frequently Asked Questions About Newton Water
Is Newton tap water safe to drink?
Newton, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of D (30/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 439 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Newton's water?
Of the 52 contaminants tested in Newton's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), 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 Newton have any water quality violations?
Yes, Newton has 439 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, RPT, MON. 53 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Newton?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Newton 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 Newton's tap water come from?
Newton's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CLEMENTON WATER DEPARTMENT and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 19,635 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Newton'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. Newton'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 Newton's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Newton'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 Newton's water quality?
If you have concerns about Newton'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 (CLEMENTON WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.