PRIVATE WATER SYSTEMS

A private water system (PWS) is defined as a water system that has fewer than 15 service connections and does not regularly serve an average of at least 25 individuals daily at least sixty days each year. If a system does not meet this definition then it is a public water system and would be under the jurisdiction of the EPA.

Private water systems include water wells, springs, cisterns, hauled water tanks, and ponds.  A permit is required from the health department before a private water system can be installed or altered.

After a private water system is installed or altered, the Health Department will ensure the system is safe for human consumption by sampling the water for bacterial and nitrate contamination, inspect the well construction and pressure tank, and reviewing the well log and completion form.  This service is also available for existing water systems.

It is extremely important for property owners to work only with licensed private water system contractors.  These contractors are licensed through the Ohio Department of Health and must carry a surety bond.

Click here for information about water sampling for both new and existing water systems.

PWS PERMITS/PROFESSIONALS:

• Ohio Department of Health
• PWS Permit Application
• State Licensed PWS Contractors
• Local Licensed PWS Contractors
• Certified Laboratories
• Completion Forms  
• Registration to Work on a PWS
• List of Registered Water Haulers

PWS RESOURCES:

• Recommendations for Well Sampling before Oil & Gas Drilling
• Ambient Groundwater Monitoring Network Web Map
• Well Disinfection Instructions
• Well Log Database Search
• Information on Ground Water and Wells
• PWS Rules and Types of PWS
• Water Treatment Devices
• EPA Drinking and Ground Water

• What to do in an Emergency

UNDERSTANDING YOUR WATER SAMPLE RESULTS:

• Bacteria (Total Coliform)
• E. coli
• Nitrates
• Lead
• Arsenic
• Other
• OSU Water Interpretation Tool