The Small Water Systems (SWS) Program oversees water systems that serve at least five, but not more than 14 service connections, to assure that the drinking water is safe, wholesome, potable, and protects public health, safety and welfare to the greatest extent possible. The purpose is also to establish standards for the approval, installation, and operation of SWSs within Alameda County, in accordance with federal standards as mandated by the state (consistent with the Safe Drinking Water Act). The standards are adopted to protect human health and the environment from degradation that could result from inadequately constructed, defective, or improperly abandoned wells and SWS.