Skip to content

Revised Total Coliform Rule

On February 13, 2013, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made revisions to the 1989 Total Coliform Rule in an effort to provide greater public health protection. The revisions, based on recommendations from a federal advisory committee, are known as the Revised Total Coliform Rule or RTCR.

The RTCR establishes a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for E. Coli and uses E. Coli and total coliforms to initiate a "find and fix" approach to address fecal contamination that could enter into the distribution system. It requires public water systems to perform assessments to identify sanitary defects and subsequently take action to correct them.

All public water systems must comply with the requirements of the RTCR beginning April 1, 2016.

Training

The DW Program developed short training presentations on various topics related to the Revised Total Coliform Rule.

Level 2 Assessment Information

If your system has triggered a Level 2 Assessment, it must be conducted by the state or a party approved by the state. Level 2 Assessment Certified Inspector List.

Resources

Small System Factsheets

external link indicator Indicates an external site.