Small drinking water systems: consumer information

Safe drinking water is everybody’s business.

Some small drinking water system owners must provide you with water that is safe for consumption. Others must provide you with a notice not to drink the water.

What is a small drinking water system?

Small drinking water systems can include restaurants, seasonal trailer parks, summer camps, community centres, libraries, gas stations, motels, churches and other public facilities.

What can I expect from a small drinking water system?

Some small drinking water system owners must provide you with water that is safe for consumption. Others must provide you with a notice not to drink the water.

Owners who are required to provide you with water that is safe for consumption must retain certain records for five years. As a consumer, you can ask to see these records during normal business hours without charge. The owner or operator of the small drinking water system must provide you with these records.

Records available for viewing:

In addition, consumers can view routine and complaint-based inspection results as well as drinking water advisories of small drinking water systems online. Inspection information can be accessed by visiting Public Health Sudbury & Districts’ disclosure website, Check Before You Go!

Owners that are required to provide you with a notice not to drink the water must post a sign advising people not to drink the water. Signs must be posted at every tap or water delivery device in the system. It is important to pay attention to these signs, as it means the water from that drinking water system may be unsafe for consumption and could cause gastrointestinal illness.


This item was last modified on August 27, 2018