Tap water (running water) is part of indoor plumbing, which became available in the late 19th century and common in the mid-20th century. The provision of tap water requires a massive infrastructure of piping, pumps, and water purification works. The direct cost of the tap water alone, however, is a small fraction of that of bottled water, which can cost from 240 to 10,000 times as much for the same amount.

The availability of clean tap water brings major public health benefits. Usually, the same administration that provides tap water is also responsible for the removal and treatment before discharge or reclamation of wastewater. In many areas, chemicals containing fluoride are added to the tap water in an effort to improve public dental health.

This remains a controversial issue in the health, freedoms and rights of the individual. See water fluoridation controversy.

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