OFFICIAL SITE OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Ground Water Quality Standards
The GWQS (N.J.A.C. 7:9C) establish the policies, classifications of ground water and the water quality criteria necessary to maintain, restore and enhance the quality of New Jersey’s ground water.
The GWQS establish classes of ground water according to the hydrogeologic characteristics of the ground water resource and the designated use(s) (e.g., drinking water supply, maintenance of special ecological resources, etc.) within each classification area. The GWQS also establish water quality criteria and antidegradation policies to protect the designated uses of each classification area. Click on the Classification tab to learn more.
The GWQS also establish water quality criteria and antidegradation policies to protect the designated uses of each classification area. Click on the Criteria, PQLs & Standards tab to learn more.
The GWQS are implemented primarily through the New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) discharge to ground water permit program and the Contaminated Site Remediation and Redevelopment Program. The actual ground water classification, criteria, and ground water quality standards that apply to a proposed activity (e.g., a new/expanded discharge to ground water or remediation of a contaminated site) are determined on a case-by-case, site-specific basis pursuant to the applicable regulatory program.
The GWQS establish three major classes of ground water and the ground water quality criteria that are applicable to each class. Maps are available in the Appendix of the GWQS (Figures 1-5) that identify the geographic boundaries of Class I-PL, Class III-A and Class III-B ground water.
| Classes of Ground Water | Primary designated use | Subclass | Description | Ground Water Quality Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Class I Ground Water of Special Ecological Significance (N.J.A.C 7:9C-1.5(d)) |
Maintenance of special ecological resources. |
Class I-A Class I-PL Class I-PL |
Exceptional Ecological Areas Pinelands (Preservation Area) Pinelands (Protection Area) |
Natural Quality (nondegradation) Natural Quality (nondegradation) Background Quality |
Class II Ground Water for Potable Water Supply (N.J.A.C 7:9C-1.5(e)) |
Existing and potential potable water supply. |
Class II-A Class II-B |
Currently potable with conventional treatment. All ground water of the State, except for ground water designated in Classes I, II-B or III. Potable subsequent to enhancement or restoration of regional water quality. No Class II-B have ever been designated. |
Human health-based numeric criteria. Higher of the criterion and PQL is the ground water quality standard; listed in Appendix Table 1. Human health-based numeric criteria. Higher of the criterion and PQL is the ground water quality standard; listed in Appendix Table 1. |
Class III Ground Water With Uses Other Than Potable Water Supply (N.J.A.C 7:9C-1.5(f)) |
Class III-A: Transmittal of ground water to adjacent classification areas and surface water. Class III-B: Any reasonable use other than potable water. |
Class III-A Class III-B |
Ground water in aquitards. Non-potable, including saltwater intrusion. |
Varies depending on where the water is released or transmitted. Criteria are that of the most stringent adjacent classification area unless there is no potential for pollutant migration. “[D]etermined on an area by area basis in response to case by case needs.” No impairment to existing uses of ground and surface waters permitted. |
The ground water quality criteria for Class II (potable supply) ground water are numeric, health-based concentrations of constituents (e.g., pollutants) that, when exceeded, pose an unacceptable human health risk from exposure through consumption of drinking water. These criteria are derived based on the best available toxicological information to protect public health without consideration of analytical feasibility, treatability, or cost.
The practical quantitation level (PQL) represents the lowest concentration of a constituent that can be reliably achieved among laboratories within specified limits of precision and accuracy during routine laboratory operating conditions (i.e., the lowest quantifiable concentration).
The ground water quality standard implemented by the Department’s regulatory programs is the higher (less stringent) of the health-based criterion and the corresponding PQL for each constituent.
There are three types of ground water quality criteria for constituents in Class II ground water, as shown in the tabs below.
For a combined list of all specific, interim specific and interim generic criteria, PQLs and standards, please see: Ground Water Quality Standards – Class IIA by Constituent .
For more information about soil and water standards promulgated by the Department, as well as information about the basis for the standards, please see the Compendium of Selected Environmental Standards. Included are the Surface Water Quality Standards, N.J.A.C. 7:9B; Ground Water Quality Standards, N.J.A.C. 7:9C; Drinking Water Quality Standards, N.J.A.C. 7:10; and soil remediation standards from the Remediation Standards, N.J.A.C. 7:26D.
The tables shown here are provided as a courtesy. Please refer to the official version of the GWQS for the most accurate information about the ground water quality criteria, PQLs, and constituent standards currently in effect. Instructions on obtaining official versions of Department rules are available on the Department’s website.
Click on the tabs below for the Class II ground water quality criteria tables
Appendix Table 1: Specific Ground Water Quality Criteria and PQLs for Class II-A Ground Water
Specific ground water quality criteria and PQLs are expressed in micrograms per liter (μg/L), which is equivalent to parts per billion (ppb), unless otherwise noted. Table 1 criteria are all maximum values unless clearly indicated as a range for which the minimum value is to the left and the maximum value is to the right. As described above, these criteria are derived to protect human health and are established through rulemaking or, under certain circumstances, through a Notice of Administrative Change to the rules. Specific criteria are listed in Appendix Table 1 of the GWQS, as shown below.
| Constituent | CASRN | Specific Ground Water Quality Criterion | Practical Quantitation Level (PQL) | Standard (Higher of PQL & Ground Water Quality Criterion) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Acenaphthene |
83-32-9 | 400 | 10 | 400 |
Acetone |
67-64-1 | 6,000 | 10 | 6,000 |
Acetophenone |
98-86-2 | 700 | 10 | 700 |
Acrolein |
107-02-8 | 4 | 4.4 | 4.4 |
Acrylamide |
79-06-1 | 0.024 | 0.2 | 0.2 |
Acrylonitrile |
107-13-1 |
0.06 |
2 |
2 |
Adipates (Di(2-ethylhexyl)adipate)(DEHA) |
103-23-1 | 30 | 3 | 30 |
Alachlor |
15972-60-8 | 0.4 | 0.1 | 0.4 |
Aldicarb sulfone |
1646-88-4 | 7 | 0.3 | 7 |
Aldrin |
309-00-2 | 0.002 | 0.020 | 0.020 |
Aluminum |
7429-90-5 | 200 | 30 | 200 |
Ammonia (Total) |
7664-41-7 | 3,000 | 200 | 3,000 |
Aniline |
62-53-3 | 6 | 2 | 6 |
Anthracene |
120-12-7 | 2,000 | 10 | 2,000 |
Antimony (Total) |
7440-36-0 | 6 | 3 | 6 |
Arsenic (Total) |
7440-38-2 | 0.02 | 3 | 3 |
Asbestos |
1332-21-4 | 7X106f/L>10µma | 106f/L>10µma | 7X106f/L>10µma |
Atrazine |
1912-24-9 | 3 | 0.1 | 3 |
Barium |
7440-39-3 | 6,000 | 200 | 6,000 |
Benz(a)anthracene |
56-55-3 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Benzene |
71-43-2 | 0.12 | 0.45 | 0.45 |
Benzidine |
92-87-5 | 0.0002 | 6.6 | 6.6 |
Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) |
50-32-8 | 0.01 | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Benzo(b)fluoranthene (3,4-Benzofluoranthene) |
205-99-2 | 0.1 | 0.2 | 0.2 |
Benzo(k)fluoranthene |
207-08-9 | 1 | 0.3 | 1 |
Benzoic acid |
65-85-0 | 30,000 | 50 | 30,000 |
Benzyl alcohol |
100-51-6 | 2,000 | 20 | 2,000 |
Beryllium |
7440-41-7 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
alpha-BHC- (alpha-HCH) |
319-84-6 | 0.006 | 0.02 | 0.02 |
beta-BHC (beta-HCH) |
319-85-7 | 0.02 | 0.020 | 0.02 |
gamma-BHC (gamma-HCH/Lindane) |
58-89-9 | 0.03 | 0.02 | 0.03 |
1,1-Biphenyl |
92-52-4 | 4.1 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
Bis(2-chloroethyl) ether |
111-44-4 | 0.03 | 7 | 7 |
Bis(2-chloroisopropyl) ether |
108-60-1 | 300 | 10 | 300 |
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) |
117-81-7 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
Bromodichloromethane (Dichlorobromomethane) |
75-27-4 | 0.98 | 0.5 | 0.98 |
Bromoform |
75-25-2 | 7.4 | 0.8 | 7.4 |
n-Butanol (n-Butyl alcohol) |
71-36-3 | 700 | 20 | 700 |
tertiary-Butyl alcohol (TBA) |
75-65-0 | 100 | 2 | 100 |
Butylbenzyl phthalate |
85-68-7 | 18 | 1 | 18 |
Cadmium |
7440-43-9 | 0.92 | 0.5 | 0.92 |
Camphor |
76-22-2 | 1,000 | 0.5 | 1,000 |
Caprolactam |
105-60-2 | 4,000 | 60 | 4,000 |
Carbofuran |
1563-66-2 | 40 | 0.5 | 40 |
Carbon disulfide |
75-15-0 | 700 | 1 | 700 |
Carbon tetrachloride |
56-23-5 | 0.4 | 1 | 1 |
Chlordane |
57-74-9 | 0.01 | 0.20 | 0.20 |
Chloride |
16887-00-6 | 250,000 | 2,000 | 250,000 |
4-Chloroaniline (p-Chloroaniline) |
106-47-8 |
0.18 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
Chlorobenzene (Monochlorobenzene) |
108-90-7 | 50 | 1 | 50 |
1-Chloro-1,1-difluoroethane |
75-68-3 | 100,000 | 500 | 100,000 |
Chloroform |
67-66-3 | 70 | 1 | 70 |
2-Chloronaphthalene |
91-58-7 | 600 | 10 | 600 |
2-Chlorophenol |
95-57-8 | 40 | 20 | 40 |
Chlorpyrifos |
2921-88-2 | 7 | 0.1 | 7 |
Chromium (Total) |
7440-47-3 | 70 | 1 | 70 |
Chrysene |
218-01-9 | 10 | 0.2 | 10 |
Cobalt |
7440-48-4 | 2 | 0.45 | 2 |
Color |
NA | 10 CU | 5 CU | 10 CU |
Copper |
7440-50-8 | 1,300 | 4 | 1,300 |
Cresols (mixed isomers) |
95-48-7 108-39-4 106-44-5 |
50 | 0.1 | 50 |
Cumene (Isopropyl benzene) |
98-82-8 | 700 | 1 | 700 |
Cyanide (free Cyanide) |
57-12-5 | 4.2 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
2,4-D (2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) |
94-75-7 | 70 | 2 | 70 |
Dalapon (2,2-Dichloropropionic acid) |
75-99-0 | 200 | 0.1 | 200 |
4,4'-DDD (p,p'-TDE) |
72-54-8 | 0.1 | 0.02 | 0.1 |
4,4'-DDE |
72-55-9 | 0.20 | 0.01 | 0.20 |
4,4'-DDT |
50-29-3 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Demeton |
8065-48-3 | 0.3 | 1 | 1 |
Dibenz(a,h)anthracene |
53-70-3 | 0.01 | 0.3 | 0.3 |
Dibromochloromethane (Chlorodibromomethane) |
124-48-1 | 0.78 | 0.75 | 0.78 |
1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP) |
96-12-8 | 0.016 | 0.02 | 0.02 |
Di-n-butyl phthalate |
84-74-2 | 700 | 1 | 700 |
1,2-Dichlorobenzene (ortho) |
95-50-1 | 210 | 5 | 210 |
1,3-Dichlorobenzene (meta) |
541-73-1 | 4.7 | 5 | 5 |
1,4-Dichlorobenzene (para) |
106-46-7 | 15 | 5 | 15 |
3,3-Dichlorobenzidine |
91-94-1 | 0.08 | 5.2 | 5.2 |
1,1-Dichloro-1-fluoroethane |
1717-00-6 | 500 | 30 | 500 |
Dichlorodifluoromethane (Freon 12) |
75-71-8 | 1,000 | 2 | 1,000 |
1,1-Dichloroethane (1,1-DCA) |
75-34-3 | 22 | 1 | 22 |
1,2-Dichloroethane |
107-06-2 | 0.3 | 0.060 | 0.3 |
1,1-Dichloroethylene (1,1-DCE) |
75-35-4 | 31 | 1 | 31 |
cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene |
156-59-2 | 11 | 1 | 11 |
trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene |
156-60-5 | 100 | 1 | 100 |
Dichlormid |
37764-25-3 | 600 | 50 | 600 |
2,4-Dichlorophenol (DCP) |
120-83-2 | 20 | 10 | 20 |
1,2-Dichloropropane |
78-87-5 | 0.92 | 0.50 | 0.92 |
1,3-Dichloropropene (cis and trans) |
542-75-6 | 0.4 | 0.45 | 0.45 |
Dieldrin |
60-57-1 | 0.002 | 0.020 | 0.020 |
Diethyl phthalate |
84-66-2 | 6,000 | 1 | 6,000 |
Diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP) |
26761-40-0 | 100 | 3 | 100 |
Diisopropyl ether (DIPE) |
108-20-3 | 20,000 | 5 | 20,000 |
2,4-Dimethyl phenol |
105-67-9 | 100 | 20 | 100 |
4,6-Dinitro-o-cresol |
534-52-1 | 0.7 | 0.03 | 0.7 |
2,4-Dinitrophenol |
51-28-5 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
2,4-Dinitrotoluene/2,6-Dinitrotoluene Mix |
25321-14-6 | 0.05 | 5.2 | 5.2 |
Di-n-octyl phthalate |
117-84-0 | 80 | 10 | 80 |
Dinoseb |
88-85-7 | 7 | 2 | 7 |
1,4-Dioxane |
123-91-1 | 0.4 | 0.1 | 0.4 |
Diphenyl ether |
101-84-8 | 100 | 10 | 100 |
Diphenylamine |
122-39-4 | 200 | 20 | 200 |
1,2-Diphenylhydrazine |
122-66-7 | 0.04 | 2.2 | 2.2 |
Diquat |
85-00-7 | 20 | 2 | 20 |
Endosulfan (alpha and beta) |
115-29-7 | 40 | 0.1 | 40 |
alpha-Endosulfan (Endosulfan I) |
959-98-8 | 40 | 0.02 | 40 |
beta-Endosulfan (Endosulfan II) |
33213-65-9 | 40 | 0.04 | 40 |
Endosulfan sulfate |
1031-07-8 | 40 | 0.02 | 40 |
Endothall |
145-73-3 | 100 | 60 | 100 |
Endrin |
72-20-8 | 2 | 0.03 | 2 |
Epichlorohydrin |
106-89-8 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
Ethion |
563-12-2 | 3 | 0.5 | 3 |
Ethyl acetate |
141-78-6 | 6,000 | 10 | 6,000 |
Ethylbenzene |
100-41-4 | 150 | 2 | 150 |
Ethylene dibromide (1,2-Dibromoethane) |
106-93-4 | 0.0004 | 0.03 | 0.03 |
Ethylene glycol |
107-21-1 | 5,100 | 200 | 5,100 |
Ethylene glycol monomethyl ether |
109-86-4 | 7 | 20,000 | 20,000 |
Ethyl ether |
60-29-7 | 1,000 | 50 | 1,000 |
2-Ethyl-1-hexanol |
104-76-7 | 200 | 0.5 | 200 |
Fluoranthene |
206-44-0 | 300 | 10 | 300 |
Fluorene |
86-73-7 | 300 | 1 | 300 |
Fluoride |
16984-48-8 | 2,000 | 500 | 2,000 |
Foaming agents (ABS/LAS) |
NA | 500 | 0.5 | 500 |
Formaldehyde |
50-00-0 | 100 | 30 | 100 |
Glyphosate |
1071-83-6 | 700 | 30 | 700 |
Hardness (as CaCO3) |
NA | 250,000 | 10,000 | 250,000 |
Heptachlor |
76-44-8 | 0.0081 | 0.020 | 0.020 |
Heptachlor epoxide |
1024-57-3 | 0.0061 | 0.020 | 0.020 |
Hexachlorobenzene |
118-74-1 | 0.033 | 0.02 | 0.033 |
Hexachlorobutadiene |
87-68-3 | 0.8 | 1 | 1 |
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene |
77-47-4 | 40 | 0.5 | 40 |
Hexachloroethane |
67-72-1 | 0.8 | 0.65 | 0.8 |
Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) |
121-82-4 | 0.3 | 0.5 | 0.5 |
Hexane (n-Hexane) |
110-54-3 | 30 | 5 | 30 |
2-Hexanone |
591-78-6 | 40 | 1 | 40 |
Indeno (1,2,3-cd)pyrene |
193-39-5 | 0.1 | 0.2 | 0.2 |
Iron |
7439-89-6 | 300 | 20 | 300 |
Isophorone |
78-59-1 | 40 | 10 | 40 |
Lead (Total) |
7439-92-1 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Malathion |
121-75-5 | 100 | 0.6 | 100 |
Manganese |
7439-96-5 | 50 | 0.4 | 50 |
Mercury (Total) |
7439-97-6 | 2 | 0.05 | 2 |
Methanol |
67-56-1 | 13,000 | 70 | 13,000 |
Methoxychlor |
72-43-5 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Methyl acetate |
79-20-9 | 7,000 | 0.5 | 7,000 |
Methyl bromide (Bromomethane) |
74-83-9 | 10 | 1 | 10 |
2-(2-Methyl-4-chlorophenoxy) propionic acid (MCPP) |
93-65-2 | 7 | 0.5 | 7 |
Methyl ethyl ketone (2-Butanone) (MEK) |
78-93-3 | 300 | 2 | 300 |
Methylene chloride |
75-09-2 | 6 | 1 | 6 |
2-Methylnaphthalene |
91-57-6 | 30 | 10 | 30 |
Methyl Salicylate |
119-36-8 | 4,000 | 50 | 4,000 |
Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) |
1634-04-4 | 70 | 1 | 70 |
Metolachlor |
51218-45-2 | 100 | 0.5 | 100 |
Mirex |
2385-85-5 | 0.1 | 0.08 | 0.1 |
Molybdenum |
7439-98-7 | 40 | 2 | 40 |
Naphthalene |
91-20-3 | 300 | 2 | 300 |
Nickel (Soluble salts) |
7440-02-0 | 100 | 4 | 100 |
Nitrate |
14797-55-8 | 10,000 | 100 | 10,000 |
Nitrite |
14797-65-0 | 1,000 | 10 | 1,000 |
Nitrate and Nitrite |
NA | 10,000 | 10 | 10,000 |
Nitrobenzene |
98-95-3 | 1.2 | 0.075 | 1.2 |
N-Nitrosodimethylamine |
62-75-9 | 0.0007 | 0.8 | 0.8 |
N-Nitrosodiphenylamine |
86-30-6 | 7 | 10 | 10 |
N-Nitrosodi-n-propylamine (Di-n-propylnitrosamine) |
621-64-7 | 0.005 | 1.6 | 1.6 |
Odor |
NA | 3b | NA | 3b |
Oil & Grease & Petroleum Hydrocarbons |
NA | None Noticeable | NA | None Noticeable |
Oxamyl |
23135-22-0 | 200 | 1 | 200 |
Parathion |
56-38-2 | 4 | 0.08 | 4 |
PBBs (Polybrominated biphenyls) |
67774-32-7 | 0.004 | 0.001 | 0.004 |
PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) |
1336-36-3 | 0.02 | 0.20 | 0.20 |
Pentachlorophenol |
87-86-5 | 0.08 | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Perchlorate |
14797-73-0 | 5 | 3 | 5 |
Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) |
375-95-1 | 0.013* | 0.0025 | 0.013* |
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) |
335-67-1 | 0.014 | 0.006 | 0.014 |
Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) |
1763-23-1 | 0.013 | 0.004 | 0.013 |
pH |
NA | 6.5-8.5 | NA | 6.5-8.5 |
Phenol |
108-95-2 | 2,000 | 10 | 2,000 |
Picloram |
1918-02-1 | 500 | 1 | 500 |
Pyrene |
129-00-0 | 200 | 0.1 | 200 |
Salicylic acid |
69-72-7 | 80 | 30 | 80 |
Selenium (Total) |
7782-49-2 | 40 | 4 | 40 |
Silver |
7440-22-4 | 40 | 1 | 40 |
Simazine |
122-34-9 | 0.3 | 0.8 | 0.8 |
Sodium |
7440-23-5 | 50,000 | 400 | 50,000 |
Strontium |
7440-24-6 | 2,000 | 5 | 2,000 |
Styrene |
100-42-5 | 100 | 2 | 100 |
Sulfate |
14808-79-8 | 250,000 | 5,000 | 250,000 |
Taste |
NA | None Objectionable | NA | None Objectionable |
TDS (Total dissolved solids) |
NA | 500,000 | 10,000 | 500,000 |
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) |
1746-01-6 | 0.0000002 | 0.00001 | 0.00001 |
1,1,1,2-Tetrachloroethane |
630-20-6 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane |
79-34-5 | 0.2 | 0.065 | 0.2 |
Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) |
127-18-4 | 0.4 | 0.055 | 0.4 |
2,3,4,6-Tetrachlorophenol |
58-90-2 | 200 | 3 | 200 |
Tetrahydrofuran |
109-99-9 | 620 | 10 | 620 |
Thallium |
7440-28-0 | 0.5 | 0.50 | 0.5 |
Toluene |
108-88-3 | 600 | 1 | 600 |
Toxaphene |
8001-35-2 | 0.03 | 1.2 | 1.2 |
1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane (Freon 113) |
76-13-1 | 20,000 | 0.3 | 20,000 |
2,4,5-TP (2-(2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxy)propionic acid) |
93-72-1 | 60 | 0.6 | 60 |
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene |
120-82-1 | 1.1 | 1 | 1.1 |
1,1,1-Trichloroethane (TCA) |
71-55-6 | 1,900 | 1 | 1,900 |
1,1,2-Trichloroethane |
79-00-5 | 0.58 | 0.24 | 0.58 |
1,1,1-Trifluoroethane |
420-46-2 | 5,000 | 60 | 5,000 |
Trichloroethene (TCE) |
79-01-6 | 0.28 | 0.10 | 0.28 |
Trichlorofluoromethane (Freon 11) |
75-69-4 | 2,000 | 1 | 2,000 |
2,4,5-Trichlorophenol |
95-95-4 | 700 | 10 | 700 |
2,4,6-Trichlorophenol |
88-06-2 | 3.0 | 0.23 | 3.0 |
1,2,3-Trichloropropane (TCP) |
96-18-4 | 0.0005* | 0.0050 | 0.0050 |
2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) |
118-96-7 | 1 | 0.3 | 1 |
Tricresyl phosphate (mixed isomers) |
1330-78-5 563-04-2 78-32-0 |
3 | 0.1 | 3 |
Tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate |
78-30-8 | 3 | 0.1 | 3 |
Vanadium pentoxide |
1314-62-1 | 60 | 1 | 60 |
Vinyl acetate |
108-05-4 | 7,000 | 5 | 7,000 |
Vinyl chloride |
75-01-4 | 0.022 | 0.035 | 0.035 |
Xylenes (Total) |
1330-20-7 | 1,000 | 2 | 1,000 |
Zinc |
7440-66-6 | 2,000 | 10 | 2,000 |
Microbiological Criteriam, Radionuclides & Turbidity |
Standards promulgated in the Safe Drinking Water Act rules (N.J.A.C. 7:10) |
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Explanation of Terms: * = revised via Notice of Administrative Change (see 50 N.J.R. 1963(a)) PQL = Practical quantitation level as defined in N.J.A.C. 7:9C-1.4 CASRN = Chemical Abstracts System Registration Number NA = not available for this constituent. a = Asbestos criterion is measured in terms of fibers/liter longer than 10 micrometers (f/L > 10 µm) CU = Standard Cobalt Units b = Threshold Odor Number (Total) means the concentration of metal in an unfiltered sample following treatment with hot dilute mineral acid (as defined in "Methods for Chemical Analysis of Water & Wastes", USEPA-600/4-79-020, March 1979) or other digestion defined by the analytical method. However samples that contain less than 1 nephelometric turbidity unit (NTU) and are properly preserved, may be directly analyzed without digestion. m = Pursuant to prevailing Safe Drinking Water Act rules, any positive result for fecal coliform is in violation of the MCL and is therefore an exceedance of the ground water quality criterion. |
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Table of Interim Specific Ground Water Quality Criteria (ISGWQC) and Interim PQLs for Constituents in Class II-A Ground Water
Interim specific ground water quality criteria and interim PQLs are expressed in micrograms per liter (μg/L), which is equivalent to parts per billion (ppb)
The Department may establish interim specific ground water quality criteria prior to the adoption of specific criteria for constituents not listed in Appendix Table 1. Interim specific criteria are derived in the same way as specific criteria; however, interim specific criteria become effective upon posting to the “Table of Interim Specific Ground Water Quality Criteria (ISGWQC), Interim PQLs (IPQLs), and Interim Specific Ground Water Quality Standards (ISGWQS) for Constituents in Class II-A Ground Water” as shown below.
| Constituent | CASRN | ISGWQC | Interim PQL | Standard (Higher of Interim PQL and ISGWQC) | Effective Date | Fact Sheet | Technical Support Documents |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chloroperfluoropolyether carboxylates (ClPFPECAs) |
220182-27-4 - Ethyl ester, hydrolyzed 220207-15-8 - Ethyl ester, hydrolyzed, sodium salt 330809-92-2 - Hydrolyzed, ammonium salts 329238-24-6 - Free anion |
0.002 µg/L* |
See Footnote |
0.002 µg/L* |
January 18, 2022 |
January 2022 |
January 2022 |
| Hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA) and its ammonium salt (GenX) | 13252-13-6 62037-80-3 |
0.02 µg/L* |
0.0075 µg/L |
0.02 µg/L* |
June 5, 2023 |
June 2023 |
June 2023 |
|
Explanation of Terms: CASRN = Chemical Abstracts System Registration Number ISGWC = Interim Specific Ground Water Quality Criterion * According to the GWQS at N.J.A.C. 7:9C-1.7(c)4iii, the criterion, derived as 0.0019 µg/L, has been rounded to one significant figure. The criterion and enforceable standard apply to the total concentration of ClPFPECAs detected in ground water. |
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Appendix Table 2: Interim Generic Ground Water Quality Criteria (IGGWQC) for Synthetic Organic Chemicals (SOCs)** in Class II Ground Water
These criteria apply to all synthetic organic chemicals (SOCs) that are not listed in Appendix Table 1 and for which the Department has not established an interim specific criterion. The numeric interim generic ground water criterion applicable to a specific constituent is based on carcinogenicity and serves as the standard for that constituent unless an applicable PQL is approved by the Department in accordance with N.J.A.C. 7:9C-1.9(c)3. Interim generic criteria are listed in Appendix Table 2 of the GWQS, as shown below.
| Constituent | ISGWQC |
|---|---|
SOCs defined as carcinogens in N.J.A.C. 7:9C-1.4 |
5 μg/l each |
SOCs defined as non-carcinogens in N.J.A.C. 7:9C-1.4 lacking specific or interim specific criteria |
100 μg/l each |
| **Synthetic Organic Chemicals (SOCs) are identified as having "evidence of carcinogenicity" or "lacking evidence of carcinogenicity" based upon available scientific evidence. Chemicals are classified as carcinogens or noncarcinogens for the purposes of risk assessment according to the weight of evidence utilized by USEPA in the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (50 FR 46880-46901 (1985)). The Interim generic ground water quality criteria do not apply to naturally occurring organic chemicals. | |
The GWQS are periodically amended to incorporate changes in policy, procedure, standards, or other provisions, or are readopted to avoid expiration pursuant to the New Jersey Administrative Procedure Act (NJAPA) at N.J.S.A. 52:14B-1 et seq.
The GWQS (N.J.A.C. 7:9C) were readopted without change on March 1, 2021 to avoid expiration, and are set to expire again in 2028. After the 2021 readoption, the GWQS were amended in January 2025 through rulemaking. The updates are effective as of February 3, 2025.
Before amendments to the GWQS can be adopted through rulemaking, opportunities for public review and comment, including a public hearing, are provided as required under the NJAPA. An informal stakeholder process may be convened prior to rulemaking. See the Ground Water Quality Standards rules stakeholder meetings for future meetings.
Links to unofficial versions of proposed and adopted rule amendments, basis and background documents, and administrative changes from 1992 through the present are provided in the table below.
| Proposed | Adoption Effective Date | Description | Basis and Background | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 3, 2024 | February 3, 2025 | Amendments to N.J.A.C. 7:9C-1.7, 1.9 and Appendix Table 1 | September 2024 | |
| n/a | January 28, 2021 | Re-adoption without change via administrative notice | n/a | |
| April 1, 2019 | June 1, 2020 | Amendments to N.J.A.C. 7:9C Appendix Table 1 | n/a | |
| n/a | August 9, 2018 | Administrative Change | n/a | |
| April 3, 2017 | January 16, 2018 | Amendments to N.J.A.C. 7:9C-1.7 and Appendix Table 1 | March 2017 | |
| n/a | March 4, 2014 | Re-adoption without change via administrative notice | n/a | |
| n/a | July 22, 2010 | Administrative Corrections via Site Remediation Program rules | n/a | |
| n/a | November 4, 2009 | Special Adoption of Amendments via Site Remediation Program rules | n/a | |
| July 2, 2007 | July 7, 2008 | Amendments to Antidegradation Provisions | May 2007* | |
| n/a | July 27, 2007 | Administrative Change | n/a | |
| October 4, 2004 | October 4, 2005 | Readoption and Recodification with Amendments | September 2004 | |
| January 21, 1992 (see 24 NJ.R. 181) | February 1, 1993 (see 25 N.J.R. 464) (see 25 N.J.R, 464) | Adopted Repeal and New Rules: N.J.A.C. 7:9-6 | November 1991 | |
| *The 2008 GWQS rule amendments were adopted as a companion to the 2008 Water Quality Management Planning (WQMP) Rule amendments at N.J.A.C. 7:15. The basis and background document is a technical support document for the WQMP rules, entitled "Nitrate as a Surrogate for Assessing Impact of Development Using Individual Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems on Ground Water Quality" (NJDEP, 2007). This document provides the scientific basis for the Department's proposal to establish nitrate as a surrogate for the large number of constituents in wastewater effluent discharged to ground water, which can occur in variable concentrations and are subject to numerous fate/transport responses after discharge, and the establishment of 2 mg/L as the statewide average existing ambient concentration of nitrate in ground water. | ||||
Please note that these definitions are abbreviated and for informational purposes only. When interpreting the GWQS, the written definitions found in the most recently adopted GWQS rules (N.J.A.C. 7:9C) always take precedence. Please refer to the official version of the GWQS for the most accurate information. Instructions on obtaining official versions of Department rules are available on the Department’s website.
| Terms | Definition |
|---|---|
| Aquifer | A saturated geologic formation(s) or unit(s) which is sufficiently permeable to transmit water to a pumping well in usable and economic quantities. |
| Aquitard | A hydrogeologic confining unit(s) that exhibits limited permeability, bounding one or more aquifers, that does not readily yield water to wells or springs, but may serve as a storage unit for ground water and may release this water to adjacent ground water units or surface waters. |
| Background water quality | The concentration of constituents in ground water which is determined to exist directly upgradient of a discharge but not influenced by the discharge. No discharge or any other activity which would result in the degradation of background water quality in the Class I-PL (Protection Area) classification area is permitted. |
| Classification area | The geographic extent (lateral and vertical) of a geologic formation(s) or unit(s) wherein ground water is classified for designated uses. See Ground Water Classification. |
| Constituent | A specific chemical substance (that is, element or compound) or water quality parameter (for example, temperature, odor, color). |
| Ground water quality standard | The required maximum level or concentration or the required range of levels or concentrations (as applicable) for a constituent in a classification area. The constituent standards shall be the basis for the Department's regulation of ground water quality effects of past, present or future discharges to ground water or the land surface. See Ground Water Quality Criteria, PQLs and Standards for Class II Ground Water. |
| Designated use | A present or potential use of ground water which is to be maintained, restored and enhanced within a ground water classification area. Designated uses may include any human withdrawal of ground water (for example, for potable, agricultural and industrial water), the discharge of ground water to surface waters of the State which support human use or ecological systems, or the direct support of ecological systems. |
| Ground water quality criteria | The designated levels or concentrations of constituents that, when exceeded, will prohibit or significantly impair a designated use of water. Criteria may be “specific” (listed for each constituent in Appendix Table 1), “interim specific” (derived using a standard method, for constituents not listed in Appendix Table 1), or “interim generic” (as listed for carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic Synthetic Organic Chemicals in Appendix Table 2). See Ground Water Quality Criteria, PQLs and Standards for Class II Ground Water. |
| Natural quality | The concentration or level of constituents which occurs in ground water of a hydrologic unit without the influence of human activity, other than the effects of regional precipitation of air pollutants (for example, acid precipitation). Class I-A and Class I-PL (Preservation Area) are nondegradation classifications in which natural quality shall be maintained or restored. |
| Pollutant | Any dredged spoil, solid waste, incinerator residue, sewage, garbage, refuse, oil, grease, sewage sludge, munitions, chemical wastes, biological materials, radioactive substance, thermal waste, wrecked or discarded equipment, rock, sand, cellar dirt, and industrial, municipal or agricultural or other residue discharged into the waters of the State. "Pollutant" includes both hazardous and nonhazardous pollutants. |
| Practical quantitation level (PQL) | The lowest concentration of a constituent that can be reliably achieved among laboratories within specified limits of precision and accuracy during routine laboratory operating conditions. See Ground Water Quality Criteria, PQLs and Standards for Class II Ground Water. |
Questions? Comments?
Email GWQS@njdepwptest.net, or call 609-633-1441.