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WaterSafeCheck

Watertown, NY Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 2 ZIP codes in Watertown, New York

Average Score

48/100

Health Violations

14

ZIP Codes

2

High Lead Risk

1

of 2 ZIP codes

D

About Tap Water in Watertown, NY

Tap water quality in Watertown, NY is a significant concern, currently receiving a below-average safety score of 48/100 across 2 ZIP codes. With 14 health-based violations recorded in the past 5 years, systems like Watertown City have struggled to maintain compliance with EPA regulations enforced by New York State Department of Health. Residents are strongly encouraged to utilize certified water filtration systems.

The accumulation of 14 health-based violations over the past 5 years highlights systemic challenges within Watertown's water infrastructure. When violations occur, it means that drinking water tests revealed contaminant levels exceeding safe limits, triggering mandatory corrective actions by New York State Department of Health. The city relies on surface water, which may require significant treatment upgrades to address these recurring issues.

Additionally, lead exposure risk remains a critical issue for certain neighborhoods. EPA data indicates that 1 out of 2 ZIP codes in Watertown are rated as High or Very High risk for lead. This risk is often driven by aging homes with pre-1986 plumbing containing lead solder or service lines. Families in these areas should test their tap water and consider NSF/ANSI 53 certified filters.

⚠ Lead Risk Alert: Some ZIP codes in Watertown are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk based on EPA data. Search your specific ZIP code for a detailed lead level report.

Health-Based Contaminant Violations in Watertown

EPA records indicate that the following contaminants have exceeded Safe Drinking Water Act Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) in Watertown water systems over the past 5 years.

Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM)

Note: The presence of a past violation does not necessarily mean current water is unsafe. Utilities are required to take corrective action. Review your Consumer Confidence Report for the latest status.

Water Quality by ZIP Code — Watertown, NY

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

D
13601

Watertown, NY

Score: 50/1007 violations
D
13603

Watertown, NY

Score: 46/1007 violations

Frequently Asked Questions — Watertown Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Watertown, NY?+
Tap water in Watertown has a grade of D, indicating compliance concerns in recent years. Families with young children or pregnant women should consider using a certified NSF/ANSI 53 water filter for drinking and cooking.
What is the water quality score for Watertown?+
The average water quality score across 2 ZIP codes in Watertown, NY is 48/100. Scores are derived from EPA violation history, lead levels, enforcement actions, and infrastructure risk indicators. Individual ZIP codes may vary — search your specific ZIP above for a personalized report.
Does Watertown have lead in its tap water?+
1 out of 2 ZIP codes in Watertown are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk. Older homes built before 1986 may have lead service lines or plumbing fixtures. Residents should run their tap for 30 seconds before use and consider a certified NSF/ANSI 53 lead filter.
How do I get the water quality report for Watertown?+
Each ZIP code in Watertown has a full water quality report on this site — click any ZIP code below. You can also get the annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your local water utility. The CCR is required to be published every year by July 1 and contains actual contaminant measurements and violation history.
Where does Watertown's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Watertown, NY primarily comes from surface water. Surface water systems treat water from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs using filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection before it reaches your tap.

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