Regulations No. 1868 of 2016 on water supply and drinking water (Drinking Water Regulations).

The Norwegian Drinking Water Regulation establishes a comprehensive legal framework to protect public health by ensuring the safe supply of adequate quantities of drinking water. Their core objective is to guarantee that water is hygienically safe, clear, and free from unacceptable taste, odor, or color. The regulation applies broadly to all drinking water systems and covers the entire supply chain—from raw water sources and catchment areas to treatment, distribution, and final consumption points. It defines key concepts such as water supply systems, hygienic barriers, and vulnerable users, and imposes a general prohibition against any activity that may contaminate drinking water. Water suppliers are required to meet strict quality standards, including microbiological and chemical limits, and ensure that water remains safe throughout the distribution network.
The regulation places primary responsibility on water suppliers (waterworks owners) to manage risks, maintain infrastructure, and ensure continuous delivery of safe water. This includes conducting risk assessments, implementing preventive measures, maintaining internal control systems, ensuring staff competence, and establishing emergency preparedness plans. Regular monitoring and sampling of both raw and treated water are mandatory, with minimum testing frequencies and parameters specified. Authorities such as the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) oversee compliance, while municipalities and regional authorities have planning and public health responsibilities. The regulation also requires transparency through reporting and informing consumers about water quality, and mandates immediate corrective action and notification in case of contamination or health risks.