Environmental Health Services

Private Water Systems

I want to install or alter my home’s private water source…what do I need?

Prior to an installation or alteration of a private water system, a permit from the health department must be obtained by the property owner or installer. Private water systems include wells, ponds, hauled water storage tanks or cisterns as a water source.

What do I need to do to install a new private water system?

  1. Fill out the appropriate permit application (well, pond, cistern, or hauled water) and pay the associated fee.
  2. Find a registered private water system contractor to complete the work on your system.
  3. Environmental Health staff will schedule a site visit with you to approve the application and issue the permit.
  4. Once the private water system is completed, Environmental Health staff will contact you to schedule a water sample.

Water Sampling

Certain types of residential financing programs such as FHA or VA, or USDA loan programs may require that an evaluation of the home’s water system or sampling be completed by the health department.

If you are interested in having your private water system tested or having your water tested for a VA, FHA, or USDA loan, please fill-out the Home Loan Evaluation Form

Due to frequent changes in laboratory charges, please contact us for the most current fees for water testing.

Consider having your water system evaluated or serviced first by a private water systems contractor registered by the Ohio Department of Health.

Private water system FAQ

There are two kinds of water supplies – private or public (municipal). Private water systems include wells, ponds, springs, hauled water systems or cisterns. The following link includes all the registered private water system contractors in the state of Ohio by county that may be able to assist you when you experience problems with your water system.

Regular water testing is a good way to ensure your private water system is working properly and that your water is safe to drink. The type of water testing needed may vary depending on the type of private water system you have – contact Henry County Health Department for types of testing offered, pricing, and to schedule a water sample. The Environmental Health staff will also help you interpret your water sample results and provide recommendations.

You can contact Henry County Health Department for water testing or a registered private water contractor. If you use Henry County Health Department for water testing, you will need to fill out the water sample request form and call 419-599-5545 or email env@henrycohd.org for additional information.

If you are looking to have your private water system evaluated to make sure it’s working properly or to have it repaired or replaced, a private water system contractor would best be able to assist you. If you are replacing your water system or are installing a brand-new private water system, a permit from Henry County Health Department is also required. Contact HCHD Environmental Health division to obtain a permit.

Forms, Fees, & Resources

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