New Jersey Well Water
Last reviewed October 29, 2026
Overview
Private wells supply water to many New Jersey households. Because they are generally not regulated like public systems under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, testing and wellhead protection are the owner’s responsibility.
Hydrogeology & what it means
New Jersey uses Coastal Plain aquifers in the south and Piedmont/Highlands bedrock in the north. The documented regional concerns below indicate what is worth testing for — not what any individual well contains.
Documented regional concerns
- Naturally occurring arsenic in parts of the state — odorless and tasteless, so only testing reveals it.
- Radon in water where granitic or uranium-bearing bedrock is present.
- Nitrate from agricultural and septic influence, especially in farmed areas.
- Emerging PFAS concern near some industrial, airport or military sites.
- Saltwater intrusion and elevated chloride/sodium in coastal or over-pumped areas.
These are documented possibilities, not a reading of your well
Frequently asked questions
What should well owners in New Jersey test for?
A practical panel for New Jersey private wells includes Total coliform bacteria, Nitrate (as N), pH, Arsenic, Radon, PFAS (where locally recommended), Chloride, Total dissolved solids. Test bacteria and nitrate at least annually and use a state-certified laboratory; confirm local recommendations with your state health department and Rutgers University Cooperative Extension.
Are private wells regulated in New Jersey?
Private wells are generally not covered by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, though New Jersey or local rules may apply to construction, permitting, or testing. Public-system limits such as EPA MCLs are useful reference points, not automatic legal limits for your well.