B75/100
Ontario Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 10,136 residents · New York
What's In Ontario's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
1
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.
When: April 1, 2024 – April 30, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
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: March 1, 2022 – March 31, 2022Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: 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
ONTARIO TOWN BENEFIT AREA #1
Population Served
10,136
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY5801233
Frequently Asked Questions About Ontario Water
Is Ontario tap water safe to drink?
Ontario, New York tap water receives a grade of B (75/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Ontario's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Ontario'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 Ontario have any water quality violations?
Yes, Ontario has 6 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, TT. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Ontario?
Ontario 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 Ontario's tap water come from?
Ontario's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by ONTARIO TOWN BENEFIT AREA #1. The system serves approximately 10,136 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Ontario'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. Ontario'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 Ontario's water compare to other cities in New York?
Ontario's water quality score of 75/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our New York state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Ontario's water quality?
If you have concerns about Ontario'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 (ONTARIO TOWN BENEFIT AREA #1) 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.