Regulation No. 63 on water quality and supervision of water supply systems

This Regulation of the Government of Greenland sets out the framework for water quality and supervision of water supply systems. It defines key terms such as drinking water, raw water, water treatment facilities, and distribution networks, and establishes binding quality standards for microbiological and chemical safety. Drinking water must be free from harmful microorganisms and contaminants, and raw water sources must be approved before use. The regulation also places responsibility on both operators of water supply systems and property owners to ensure installations meet requirements. Materials that come into contact with drinking water must be certified under EU or comparable standards. Operators must conduct ongoing operational controls, maintain detailed operational journals, and prepare drinking water safety plans by 2025. Regular sampling and laboratory testing of raw and drinking water are required, following strict ISO standards, with costs borne by the operator.
The supervisory authority (Department of Environment) is empowered to monitor waterworks, require remedial actions, impose restrictions such as boil-water advisories, and issue binding orders to safeguard or restore water quality. Special provisions exist for food-exporting enterprises with stricter controls. The regulation mandates annual water quality reports from operators and a national five-year summary report. A “Drinking Water Group” of authorities, municipalities, operators, and food industry representatives is established as an advisory body. The order allows for temporary dispensations from some chemical indicator limits under strict conditions, but only if public health is not endangered. Enforcement includes fines for violations such as failing to conduct required monitoring, reporting, or ensuring compliance. The Act contains 9 Annexes.