F12/100
Plattsburgh Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 35,335 residents · New York
What's In Plattsburgh's Tap Water?
70
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.40 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2015.
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
PLATTSBURGH CITY
Population Served
24,173
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY0900217
GREATER PLATTSBURGH WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
11,162
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY0900220
Frequently Asked Questions About Plattsburgh Water
Is Plattsburgh tap water safe to drink?
Plattsburgh, New York tap water receives a grade of F (12/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 209 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Plattsburgh's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Plattsburgh's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), 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 Plattsburgh have any water quality violations?
Yes, Plattsburgh has 209 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2015. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Plattsburgh?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Plattsburgh 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 Plattsburgh's tap water come from?
Plattsburgh's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by PLATTSBURGH CITY and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 35,335 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Plattsburgh'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. Plattsburgh'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 Plattsburgh's water compare to other cities in New York?
Plattsburgh's water quality score of 12/100 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 Plattsburgh's water quality?
If you have concerns about Plattsburgh'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 (PLATTSBURGH CITY) 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.