What distinguishes a Community Water System?

A Community Water System is defined by its reliability and consistency in supplying water to a specific population on a year-round basis. This means that the system is designed to cater to the everyday needs of a permanent population, ensuring a stable source of potable water for all community members. Such systems are essential for health, sanitation, and overall community well-being.

The focus on supplying water to the same population throughout the year underscores the system's role in supporting a stable community rather than addressing transient or seasonal needs. In contrast, other options reflect scenarios where water service is either temporary or limited to specific seasons, which does not meet the definition of a Community Water System. For instance, systems that serve temporary housing or operate only during the tourist season are designed to meet fluctuating demands, and those that serve multiple towns may not provide consistent service to a single population throughout the entire year, which distinguishes them from traditional Community Water Systems.