F0/100
Orange Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 30,134 residents · New Jersey
What's In Orange's Tap Water?
70
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.54 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.013 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
4
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 11, 2024 – October 22, 2024Rule: 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: August 1, 2024 – August 21, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: March 31, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
ORANGE WATER DEPT
Population Served
30,134
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ0717001
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Water
Is Orange tap water safe to drink?
Orange, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 68 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Orange's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Orange's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Copper (90th percentile). 2 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 Orange have any water quality violations?
Yes, Orange has 68 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, RPT, MON. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Orange?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Orange is recommended. 2 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 Orange's tap water come from?
Orange's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by ORANGE WATER DEPT. The system serves approximately 30,134 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Orange'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. Orange'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 Orange's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Orange'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 Orange's water quality?
If you have concerns about Orange'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 (ORANGE 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.