What key aspect defines a Public Water System according to regulations?

A Public Water System is primarily defined by its role in providing drinking water for human consumption. This definition is critical because it establishes the essential service that such systems offer, which is the direct supply of potable water to the public. Regulations governing public water systems emphasize the importance of safe and reliable access to drinking water, highlighting health and safety standards that must be upheld to ensure the water supplied does not pose a risk to consumers.

The other options do not encapsulate the defining characteristics of a Public Water System. For instance, whether a system operates at a profit does not impact its classification as a public water system. Additionally, ownership by municipal entities is not a requirement; public water systems can also be operated by private entities or cooperatives. Tracking water usage data, while important for operational efficiency, is not a defining feature of what constitutes a Public Water System. The core aspect is the provision of safe drinking water, which is aligned with public health goals and regulations.