D24/100
Riverdale Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 6,862 residents · New Jersey
What's In Riverdale's Tap Water?
31
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) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
3
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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.
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.
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2024 – August 22, 2024Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: October 1, 2023 – January 26, 2024Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – September 5, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
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
MOUNTAIN LAKES WATER DEP
Population Served
4,012
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NJ1425001
RIVERDALE BORO WATER DEP
Population Served
2,850
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ1433001
Frequently Asked Questions About Riverdale Water
Is Riverdale tap water safe to drink?
Riverdale, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of D (24/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 368 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Riverdale's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Riverdale'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 Riverdale have any water quality violations?
Yes, Riverdale has 368 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Riverdale?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Riverdale 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 Riverdale's tap water come from?
Riverdale's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by MOUNTAIN LAKES WATER DEP and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 6,862 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Riverdale'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. Riverdale'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 Riverdale's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Riverdale's water quality score of 24/100 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 Riverdale's water quality?
If you have concerns about Riverdale'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 (MOUNTAIN LAKES WATER DEP) 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.