Linda County Water District

Understanding Your Municipal Water Sources and Potential Contaminants

Municipal water comes from various natural sources including rivers, lakes, ponds, reservoirs, springs and wells. As water moves across land surfaces or through underground layers, it naturally dissolves minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, while also potentially collecting substances from human and animal activities.

Common contaminant categories include:

• Inorganic contaminants: Such as salts and metals that may occur naturally or result from urban runoff, industrial discharge, oil and gas production, mining or farming operations.
• Microbial contaminants: Including viruses and bacteria that may come from wastewater facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations and wildlife.
• Radioactive substances: Which can be naturally occurring or result from resource extraction activities.
• Pesticides and herbicides: From various sources including agriculture, urban stormwater runoff and residential usage.
• Organic chemical contaminants: Including synthetic and volatile compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff and septic systems.

To ensure tap water safety, the EPA and Department of Drinking Water (DDW) establish regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. Similarly, FDA regulations set standards for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection. All water, including bottled varieties, can reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants, though their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk.

For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

How do I apply for new service?

Each prospective customer requesting water, electric and/or sanitary sewer service must complete and sign an application form before service is provided. The following information is required:

For Renters/Lessees:

1. Completed Application for New Service (available from Customer Service or website)
2. Valid identification (driver's license and/or student ID)
3. Notarized Rental/Lease Verification from property owner (unmodified forms only)
4. Utility Deposit determined by utility credit check based on utility history
5. Student deposit amount is $300 plus $35 non-refundable Connection Fee

For Homeowners/Property Managers:

1. Completed Application for New Service
2. Valid government-issued identification
3. Proof of property ownership (deed, tax documents, or closing statement)
4. Property inspection (where applicable)
5. Utility Deposit based on credit check results

For Business/Commercial Accounts:

1. Completed Application for New Service
2. Valid identification and federal tax ID number
3. Certificate of Occupancy
4. Inspection documentation (where applicable)
5. Commercial deposit based on location usage type

Connection Scheduling:

Service connections are typically completed within 1-2 business days after requirements are met and deposits paid. Standard connections occur during normal business hours, with additional charges applying for after-hours requests.