C50/100
Chester Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,316 residents · New York
What's In Chester's Tap Water?
54
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.012 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2024 – March 10, 2025Rule: 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
CHESTER VILLAGE
Population Served
3,448
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY3503524
LAKE HILL FARMS WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
1,868
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY3505650
Frequently Asked Questions About Chester Water
Is Chester tap water safe to drink?
Chester, New York tap water receives a grade of C (50/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 70 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Chester's water?
Of the 54 contaminants tested in Chester'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 Chester have any water quality violations?
Yes, Chester has 70 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MON, RPT, MCL. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Chester?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Chester 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 Chester's tap water come from?
Chester's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by CHESTER VILLAGE and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 5,316 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Chester'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. Chester'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 Chester's water compare to other cities in New York?
Chester's water quality score of 50/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our New York state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Chester's water quality?
If you have concerns about Chester'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 (CHESTER 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.