The Rada adopted new rules in the field of drinking water: what will change in Ukraine

The Verkhovna Rada has adopted the European integration law on drinking water supply and wastewater treatment in its entirety. The document was supported by 286 MPs. It provides for a new division of powers between state and local authorities, a mechanism for temporary deviations from water quality indicators, and a mandatory risk management system.

This is draft law No. 13578, which the Cabinet of Ministers submitted to parliament back in July 2025. In November, the document was adopted as a basis, and on September 15, 2026, it was adopted in its entirety. Currently, its status in the draft law card is indicated as “preparing for signature.”

How will powers be distributed

One of the key changes will be a clearer division of functions between the Cabinet of Ministers, the National Commission for the Regulation of Energy and Utilities of Ukraine and local governments.

It is expected that this will eliminate duplication of powers and different practices in applying legislation in the field of water supply and wastewater treatment.

When will deviations from water quality indicators be allowed

The law also establishes a mechanism for applying temporary deviations from certain drinking water quality indicators.

The Verkhovna Rada notes that such a mechanism is especially important during martial law and in conditions of damage to critical infrastructure facilities.

At the same time, the introduction of such a mechanism does not mean an automatic reduction in drinking water quality requirements – the law establishes the procedure by which temporary deviations can be applied.

A risk management system will be introduced

Another change is the transition to a risk-oriented approach. It is planned to create a mandatory risk management system in the drinking water supply sector.

Such an approach should allow not only to respond to already identified water problems, but also to identify and minimize potential risks in advance.

The changes are part of Ukraine’s European integration commitments and are aimed at approximating Ukrainian legislation to the requirements of EU Directive 2020/2184 on the quality of water intended for human consumption.