About the program
The Private Water Systems program is a state-mandated program covering wells, springs, cisterns, and ponds used as a potable water supply. A permit is required for each well alteration or new well drilled. Before approval, a water sample is collected to confirm the water is free from coliform bacteria, E. coli, and nitrates. All well drillers are registered by the Ohio Department of Health and inspected annually for license renewal.
Permit & sampling fees are subject to change. For current costs, contact the Environmental Office at 740-652-2800, Option 3.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a private water system permit?
Obtain the permit application online or by contacting the Environmental Clerk at 740-652-2800, Option 3, or ENVHealth@fairfieldcountyohio.gov.
How much does a permit cost?
Permit costs are subject to change year to year. For the current cost, contact the Environmental Office at 740-652-2800, Option 3, or ENVHealth@fairfieldcountyohio.gov.
How do I schedule a water sample?
Contact the Environmental Office at 740-652-2800, Option 3, or ENVHealth@fairfieldcountyohio.gov.
What do you test for?
Water samples obtained by the health department are tested for coliform bacteria and E. coli. A color-strip test for nitrates/nitrites is also performed during the first sample for a newly constructed well, or upon request.
Can I connect a new house to an existing well?
If the existing well is in good working condition, you may connect with an alteration permit. If not, you will be required to install a new well. If you are unsure, contact a registered well contractor to evaluate it.
How far from my well must a pool or barn be?
Any structure added to your property, pool, building, patio, deck, etc., must maintain a ten-foot isolation distance from the well.
My well water is cloudy or has a bad smell. What do I do?
Contact a registered well contractor. They can diagnose the issue and determine the appropriate course of action.
How do I apply for a variance to the rules?
Discuss the issue with an Environmental Health Specialist before submitting a Variance Request Form for review by the Fairfield County Board of Health. A submission fee is required and approval is not guaranteed.
Where can I find the rules governing private water systems?
The regulations are found in the Ohio Administrative Code, Section 3701-28 (opens in a new window, leaves this site).
What are PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” and do I need to test for them?
Ohio EPA and the Ohio Department of Health are analyzing the prevalence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Ohio's drinking water. Learn more about PFAS in drinking water (opens in a new window, leaves this site).