F0/100
Athens Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,700 residents · New York
What's In Athens's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (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: September 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023Rule: Total Coliform 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
ATHENS VILLAGE
Population Served
1,700
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY1900024
SLEEPY HOLLOW LAKE WATER CO.
Population Served
2,000
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY1915264
Frequently Asked Questions About Athens Water
Is Athens tap water safe to drink?
Athens, New York tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 79 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Athens's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Athens'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 Athens have any water quality violations?
Yes, Athens has 79 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MON, Other, MCL. 61 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Athens?
Athens 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 Athens's tap water come from?
Athens's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by ATHENS VILLAGE and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 3,700 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Athens'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. Athens'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 Athens's water compare to other cities in New York?
Athens'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 York state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Athens's water quality?
If you have concerns about Athens'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 (ATHENS VILLAGE) 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.