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.

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 Water Districts
Certified Laboratories
Completion Forms
Registration to Work on a PWS
List of Registered Water Haulers

PWS RESOURCES:
Well Disinfection Instructions
Well Log Database Search
PWS Rules and Types of PWS
Reduce Drinking Water Lead Exposure
Recommendations for Well Sampling before Oil & Gas Drilling
Ambient Groundwater Monitoring Network Web Map
Information on Ground Water and Wells
Water Treatment Devices
EPA Drinking and Ground Water
What to do in an Emergency
Map of Water Districts in Hocking County

UNDERSTANDING YOUR WATER SAMPLE RESULTS:
Bacteria (Total Coliform)
E. coli
Nitrates
Lead
Arsenic
Other
OSU Water Interpretation Tool