British Columbia's drinking water at the tap is generally very safe. However, outbreaks of water-borne disease caused by pathogens (e.g., bacteria, protozoa, and viruses) and chemicals occur from time to time. Pathogens usually get into drinking water supplies when lakes or streams, or community water-supply pipes or storage reservoirs, are contaminated by animal wastes or human sewage.

Water suppliers are responsible for delivering safe drinking water that meets the requirements of the Drinking Water Protection Act and Drinking Water Protection Regulation, as well as the conditions set on their operating permits. These requirements include treating the water, if necessary, and ensuring water quality through monitoring. Water suppliers must notify the public when there is a potential or actual problem.