What is the definition of a public water system according to TCEQ?

The definition of a public water system according to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) incorporates key elements that focus on serving a specific number of connections or individuals. A public water system can be characterized either by providing piped water to a minimum number of service connections or by the number of individuals served daily.

Specifically, the criteria state that a public water system must either provide piped water to at least 15 service connections or serve at least 25 individuals daily. This reflects the regulatory focus on ensuring that water supply systems meet certain thresholds to assure safety and reliability for users.

By including both criteria, the definition accommodates different types of systems and their respective customer bases. A system might cater to few connections but serve many individuals, or vice versa. This dual approach effectively captures the diversity of public water systems in the state, ensuring that those who depend on such services are covered under applicable regulations for health and safety.

Understanding this definition is crucial for anyone involved in the management or regulation of water systems, as it lays the groundwork for meeting standards and maintaining compliance with TCEQ regulations.