B64/100
Watertown Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 37,201 residents · New York
What's In Watertown's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.007 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.006 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2022 – March 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issuedVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issuedVerify on EPA.gov
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
SACKETS HARBOR VILLAGE
Population Served
2,200
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY2202343
WATERTOWN CITY
Population Served
27,861
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY2202346
LERAY TOWN WD 1, 2, 4
Population Served
7,140
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY2221206
Frequently Asked Questions About Watertown Water
Is Watertown tap water safe to drink?
Watertown, New York tap water receives a grade of B (64/100), which is considered good. Out of 77 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 Watertown's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Watertown's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Watertown have any water quality violations?
Yes, Watertown has 19 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MCL, MR. 17 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Watertown?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Watertown is recommended. 2 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 Watertown's tap water come from?
Watertown's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by SACKETS HARBOR VILLAGE and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 37,201 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Watertown'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. Watertown'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 Watertown's water compare to other cities in New York?
Watertown's water quality score of 64/100 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 Watertown's water quality?
If you have concerns about Watertown'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 (SACKETS HARBOR 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.