Water Quality Reclassification

Water Quality Reclassification

All the waters, both surface waters and ground waters, of the state are currently assigned a classification. In accordance with section 22a-426(f) of the Connecticut General Statutes, a person may request a change in the surface or ground water quality classifications. Such reclassifications are considered on a case-by-case basis and must be consistent with the standards and criteria established by the Connecticut Water Quality Standards.

CT DEEP is proposing amendments to lower the groundwater classification from an existing classification of GA to a classification of GB at sites in Ansonia, Cromwell and Waterbury (click on town name for detailed site maps). A public hearing will be held on September 1, 2026. Details can be found in the Public Notice of Hearing for Ground Water Reclassification 2026

Ground Water Reclassification Applications for changes to ground water classifications are due March 30 of each year. The procedure is set out in section 22a-426(f) of the Connecticut General Statutes and the criteria for consideration are set out in Section 22a-426-7(k)(2) of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies. Amendments to the Remediation Standard Regulations were adopted on February 16, 2021. The amendments include a provision for Alternative Groundwater Protection Criteria, which allow for less stringent groundwater clean-up standards for sites where the long-term goal is GA, but there is no existing or potential use of the groundwater for drinking.  Applicants interested in submitting a request for a Ground Water Classification Change should first review this new provision to determine whether conditions at their site meet the Alternative Groundwater Protection Criteria. 

Questions regarding ground water reclassifications may be directed to Kim Czapla at (860) 424-3335 or Kim.Czapla@ct.gov.
 
Archive of Ground Water Quality Reclassifications

Surface Water Reclassifications
For information on surface water reclassification, contact Nathan Chien at Nathan.Chien@ct.gov.

 

Content last updated on August 6,2026