According to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act and the Drinking Water Ordinance, drinking water must be of such a quality that its consumption or use is not likely to cause damage to human health, in particular through pathogens. The operator of the drinking water supply system is responsible for compliance with this requirement. He must monitor his drinking water by means of sampling by a laboratory specially approved for this purpose. In addition, drinking water supply systems are officially monitored by the state health authorities.
The water management administration is responsible for groundwater protection and thus the protection of the drinking water resource.
Swimming or bathing pool water as well as swimming or bathing pond water in commercial enterprises, public baths as well as in other facilities not exclusively used for private purposes must also be of such a nature, according to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act, that its use is not likely to cause damage to human health, in particular through pathogens. The operator of a swimming or bathing pool or a swimming or bathing pond is responsible for ensuring that the water quality meets the legal requirements. He ensures this in particular by taking samples. In addition, swimming pools and bathing ponds are officially monitored by the health authorities.
The entrepreneur or other owner of a water extraction or water supply system, a swimming or bathing pool or a swimming or bathing pond must carry out the water tests for which he is responsible at his own expense or have them carried out. He must also bear the costs (fees and expenses) of the water tests that the health authority carries out or has carried out.
In Bavaria, 375 EU bathing sites were designated at around 300 lakes in 2022. The water quality at these EU bathing sites is subject to regular monitoring by the health offices. During the bathing season (May 15 to September 15), water samples are taken monthly for this purpose. In addition, a sample is taken shortly before the bathing season.