Services

Private Water Systems

New Draft rules can now receive comments at the Ohio Department of Health.

The Belmont County Health Department is responsible for the regulation of private water systems within Belmont County as specified in Chapter 3701-28 of the Ohio Administrative Code. Private Water Systems are potable water wells, ponds, springs, cisterns and hauled water storage tanks that provide drinking water to fewer than 25 people, less than sixty days out of the year, and have less than 15 service connections. These would include single water supplies that serve homes, small businesses, small churches, small mobile home parks or communities with fewer than 25 residents.

A permit MUST be obtained through the Belmont County Health Department before constructing, altering, or sealing a private water system. Refer to the Homeowner's Guide to Constructing a Private Water System for the steps necessary to obtain a permit.

Private water system contractors are required to be registered through the Ohio Department of Health to construct, alter and seal water systems throughout Ohio.

List of Registered Private Water System Contractors located in Ohio

List of Private Water Systems Contractors located outside Ohio

List of Private Water Systems Contractors with Down-hole well cameras

Water Samples

The Belmont County Health Department also collects water samples for new and existing private water systems. Water is analyzed for the presence of total coliform bacteria and e-coli bacteria. Additionally, for newly constructed private water systems, a prescreening test for nitrates/nitrites is done at the time of collection. To set up an appointment for water sample collection call (740) 695-1202.

Fact Sheets and Guidance Documents

Procedure For Disinfecting a Well

Well Sealing Guidelines for Homeowners

Instructions for Dye Testing a Well

Drinking Water From Household Wells - U.S. EPA

Private Water System Program Fees

Cistern/Spring/Pond/Hauled Water Storage Tank Permit - $160.00

New Well Permits - $180.00

Alteration Permit - $50.00

Sealing Permit - $25.00

Unauthorized Construction Penalty Fee - $50.00

Unauthorized Alteration Penalty Fee - $50.00