Who may grant a variance from standard treatment technique requirements?

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Variances from standard treatment technique requirements come from the regulatory authority in charge of drinking water compliance. The commissioner has the delegated authority to grant such variances after a careful review, and usually with conditions to ensure public health remains protected. A variance isn’t a free pass; it’s allowed only when meeting the standard is impractical, and it requires showing an acceptable alternative approach and ongoing monitoring.

Local officials like a city mayor or the governor don’t have the authority to grant these regulatory variances, and while a state board may set standards and oversee policy, the approval of a variance—in this framework—rests with the commissioner.