F0/100
Oxford Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,280 residents · Pennsylvania
What's In Oxford's Tap Water?
38
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: April 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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: April 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Violation related to Consumer Confidence Report
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: March 1, 2023 – March 31, 2023Rule: Consumer Confidence RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2021 – July 31, 2021Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify 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
OXFORD BOROUGH
Population Served
5,280
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA1150066
Frequently Asked Questions About Oxford Water
Is Oxford tap water safe to drink?
Oxford, Pennsylvania tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 137 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Oxford's water?
Of the 38 contaminants tested in Oxford's water supply, the most notable include PFOA. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Oxford have any water quality violations?
Yes, Oxford has 137 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MON, Other. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Oxford?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Oxford 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 Oxford's tap water come from?
Oxford's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by OXFORD BOROUGH. The system serves approximately 5,280 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Oxford'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. Oxford'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 Oxford's water compare to other cities in Pennsylvania?
Oxford'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 Pennsylvania state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Oxford's water quality?
If you have concerns about Oxford'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 (OXFORD BOROUGH) 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.