What defines a community water system?

A community water system is characterized by its capacity to serve a defined population over a sustained duration. Specifically, it must provide water to at least 15 service connections or serve a minimum of 25 individuals year-round. This definition encompasses systems that are designed to meet the water supply needs of communities, ensuring safe and reliable access to drinking water for residents.

The importance of these criteria lies in the need for regulatory oversight and the implementation of safety standards that ensure the health of the community. Such regulations are not as pertinent for smaller operations, which do not meet the established thresholds for a community water system.

The other choices do not meet the criteria established for a community water system, as they either involve private supplies for fewer people or are specifically designed for temporary use. Therefore, only the option describing a public water supply serving at least 15 service connections accurately reflects the definition of a community water system.