A non-public (private) well is a well that does not supply a public water supply. A public water supply is a system that has at least 15 service connections or regularly serves an average of at least 25 individuals daily for at least 60 days out of the year.

Private well owners have the ultimate responsibility of ensuring that all well services are performed according to Iowa Law to protect your health, the health of your family and the health of others by protecting groundwater resources. Environmental health specialists at the Scott County Health Department and local certified well contractors are available to help you accomplish this task. The Health Department inspects and permits the construction and installation of all private wells.

The resources found in our Homeowners Tool Box, can help you learn about your private water well and your responsibility as a homeowner.

Homeowner Tool Box

Download Documents:

• Non-Public Water Wells Consumer Booklet
• Private Wells in Karst Areas
• How To Sample Your Well Water
• Understanding Your Water Testing Report
• Protecting Your Private Well
• Grants to Counties Program
• How Safe Is Well Water
• Iowa DNR Non-Public Water Wells and Water Systems Booklet