Analysis
NAICS 221310 is the 2022 national industry for water supply and irrigation systems, part of 22131 (Water Supply and Irrigation Systems). Census lists 10 example activities under it in the official index.
County Business Patterns counts 4,554 US establishments in this code in 2023, employing 43,082 people at an average annual payroll of $76,890 per employee (64th percentile of national industries). 57% of the establishments have fewer than five employees, which is close to the national mix.
Between 2018 and 2023 the number of establishments grew 9% and employment rose 12%. The 2018 count used NAICS 2017, so part of a large move can come from codes being redefined rather than from businesses opening or closing.
Census lists 5 related activities that belong elsewhere, most often in 237110, 238220, 561730 and 445298. Businesses that do several things are classified by their primary activity, the one that generates the most value, so check those boundaries before settling on this code.
Its index entries, the activities Census uses to assign businesses to this code, include canal, irrigation, filtration plant, water, impounding reservoirs, irrigation and irrigation system operation, among 10 in all.
For example, irrigation project construction (except lawn) are classified in 237110 (Water and Sewer Line and Related Structures Construction) instead.
Official definition
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in operating water treatment plants and/or operating water supply systems. The water supply system may include pumping stations, aqueducts, and/or distribution mains. The water may be used for drinking, irrigation, or other uses.
Source: US Census Bureau, NAICS 2022 Manual.
Not this code if…
| The business mainly does | Use instead |
|---|---|
| Irrigation project construction (except lawn) | 237110 Water and Sewer Line and Related Structures Construction |
| Installing lawn sprinkler systems | 238220 Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors |
| Lawn irrigation services | 561730 Landscaping Services |
| Retailing bottled water | 445298 All Other Specialty Food Retailers |
| Government establishments primarily engaged in administering irrigation districts | 926130 Regulation and Administration of Communications, Electric, Gas, and Other Utilities |
Index entries (10)
- Canal, irrigation
- Filtration plant, water
- Impounding reservoirs, irrigation
- Irrigation system operation
- Water distribution (except irrigation)
- Water distribution for irrigation
- Water filtration plant operation
- Water supply systems
- Water treatment and distribution
- Water treatment plants