Construction and operation of public water systems in Florida

The Federal Safe Drinking Water Act applies to systems that provide piped water to 25 or more people, 60 days or more out of the year, or have 15 or more service connections. Federally, this rule is administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). With one exception, they have delegated this responsibility to the individual states.

Within Florida, the Department of Environmental Protection is the primary agency responsible for enforcing the Safe Drinking Water Act. However, the Florida Department of Health implements the program in six counties. In these six counties (Miami-Dade, Polk​, Hillsborough, Sarasota, Palm Beach Volusia​), the county health department is responsible for oversight of construction and operation of all public water systems. Smaller water systems, such as small commercial operations or small rental complexes, may fall under the limited-use drinking water rule.

If are served by a public water system and have a concern with the water

First contact your public water utility. If that does not address your concern, contact the appropriate regulatory agency. For most counties in Florida, oversight of public water systems is the responsibility of the Department of Environmental Protection’s district offices. However, DOH and DEP have an agreement that gives the DOH responsibility in six counties. ​ If you live in Miami-Dade, Polk​, Hillsborough, Sarasota, Palm Beach, or Volusia​ counties, contact that respective county health department location.

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