What water utilities need to know about new EPA PFAS regulations

In May 2026, the United States Environmental Protection Agency issued revisions to its 2024 National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR), keeping regulatory determinations for two of the most common PFAS compounds — PFOA and PFOS — and removing provisions related to PFHxS, PFNA, PFBS, and HFPO-DA (often referred to as GenX chemicals). 

Approximately 10 to 20 percent of water utilities across the country will be impacted and will need to take action to comply with the requirements by 2029. However, the USEPA has included a provision that allows utilities to request a compliance extension for 2031. Extensions must be granted by the primacy agency overseeing a utility, as the USEPA cannot legally grant federal extension within a primacy agency's jurisdiction.

This rule also requires utilities to publish their concentration levels of PFOA and PFOS in the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) beginning in 2029, without exception. Utilities with concentrations below the MCL will still need to monitor and continue to prove that their numbers are compliant with the standard set by the USEPA.

Utilities that are granted an extended compliance date in 2031 but have any occurrence data above 12 ng/L during the initial monitoring period will need to take at least two interim actions between 2029 and 2031 including: 
•    Install water pitchers with certified PFOA and PFOS removal
•    Deliver alternative water supply with lower PFOA and PFOS levels
•    Provide point-of-use treatment
•    Implement actions to reduce PFOA and PFOS at the source
•    Provide public education - Distribute written materials to consumers
•    Provide public education - Conduct community education outreach

*Only one of the last two actions may be selected. 

Turning PFAS data into a compliance strategy

As PFAS regulations and treatment technologies continue to evolve, utilities need a strategy grounded in their own water quality, existing treatment processes, operational needs, schedule, and financial constraints.

Using UCMR5 and utility-specific monitoring data, Garver helps clients understand where they stand, identify data gaps, and determine whether additional monitoring, source-management measures, or treatment evaluation may be needed. When treatment is required, our teams can evaluate established options such as granular activated carbon and high-pressure membrane technologies, including reverse osmosis and nanofiltration.

The goal is not simply to identify a treatment technology. It is to develop a practical path forward that balances compliance, performance, implementation risk, and long-term value for the utility and its customers.

Start planning before treatment is required

PFAS compliance may involve more than selecting a treatment process. Utilities may also need to coordinate monitoring, public communication, capital planning, funding, design, permitting, procurement, and construction. Starting early gives utility leaders more time to evaluate those decisions deliberately and align them with other capital priorities.

Garver combines local client service with water treatment expertise and funding support to help utilities move from monitoring data to an actionable compliance plan. Whether the next step is confirming sampling results, evaluating treatment alternatives, developing a capital improvement strategy, or pursuing available funding, the right starting point is a clear understanding of the utility’s specific risk, schedule, and options.

If your monitoring results indicate that action may be needed, begin by defining the decisions, schedule, and funding required to reach compliance. Garver can help your utility turn its PFAS data into a practical, phased plan that protects public health, supports informed investment, and keeps future options open.