The Public Water Supply Section provides emergency response services and investigates complaints. The section is responsible for regulating more than 6,000 water systems. It ensures that safe, potable drinking water is available in adequate quantities to the residents and visitors of North Carolina. The Public Water Supply Section reviews and approves plans and specifications for new constructions and expansion and improvement projects. In addition, the section offers financial assistance through loans and grants. It administers an operating fee permit program. The Public Water Supply Section also provides technical assistance and operates a protection and enforcement branch. The section is a part of the Division of Environmental Health.