Community Response Directory
Water quality & supply
Drinking water, surface water, contamination, discharges.
All problems
Most day-to-day water complaints are handled by the state. Federal escalation if the state will not act.
- Call first
- State Environmental AgencyDay-to-day water permits and complaints.
- Also contact
- EPAFederal standards and Superfund.
- Public WorksMunicipal drinking water and sewer.
- May help
- Waterkeeper AllianceLocal Waterkeeper organizations patrol waterways.
- American RiversNGO · National · Professional
- River NetworkHelps local watershed groups organize.
- EPA ECHO — Enforcement & ComplianceFederal compliance history for the facility.
- If needed
- Environmental consultantProfessional discipline
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
- Not usually responsible
- Planning DepartmentDoes not test or enforce water quality.
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026. Information only — listings do not imply endorsement.