F0/100
Utica Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 126,250 residents · New York
What's In Utica's Tap Water?
77
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.38 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.012 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2017.
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
MVWA - MOHAWK VALLEY WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
126,250
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY3202411
Frequently Asked Questions About Utica Water
Is Utica tap water safe to drink?
Utica, New York tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 31 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Utica's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Utica'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 Utica have any water quality violations?
Yes, Utica has 31 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2017. Violation types include TT, MON, MR. 25 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Utica?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Utica 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 Utica's tap water come from?
Utica's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by MVWA - MOHAWK VALLEY WATER AUTHORITY. The system serves approximately 126,250 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Utica'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. Utica'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 Utica's water compare to other cities in New York?
Utica'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 Utica's water quality?
If you have concerns about Utica'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 (MVWA - MOHAWK VALLEY WATER AUTHORITY) 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.