Decisions will need to be made on allocating the use of source waters in the state as well as on allocating limited financial resources for the construction and improvement of water supplies, treatment systems and distribution. This chapter discusses regulatory and funding decision-making processes and options that affect water supplies in Iowa. The ideas presented here result from public meetings, data gathering activities and deliberations of The IOWA Plan Task Force. This agency has set up a multi-component structure for regulating water in Iowa.
Water use is controlled through a water permit process.
Each PWS that uses an average of more than 25,000 gallons per day is required to obtain a permit to withdraw water from groundwater sources, surface water sources or springs. Withdrawal permits must be renewed every ten years. These permits require each PWS to specify water use, estimate quantities to be withdrawn and identify the requirements for reporting actual annual water usage. Private water supplies are also required to obtain a use permit when the estimated withdrawal will equal or exceed 25,000 gallons per day. Additionally, PWS are required to obtain and renew their Water Supply Operation Permit every three years.