How many connections are required for a public system classification?

The correct classification for a public water system typically requires a minimum of 15 service connections. This classification is crucial as it delineates the regulatory requirements and operational standards that public water systems must adhere to for safety and reliability. Systems with fewer than 15 connections are usually classified as "non-public" water systems, which are not subject to the same level of oversight and requirements mandated for public systems.

In this context, the classification based on the number of connections helps ensure that water systems serving the public have sufficient scale to implement and maintain adequate treatment, monitoring, and reporting practices necessary to protect public health. Understanding the classification parameters is essential for environmental health specialists to properly evaluate and enforce water quality standards across different systems.