Wells & Septic

The Scott County Health Department's Private Water Well Permit and Inspection Program and the Private Sewage Disposal System Permit and Enforcement Programs protect public health by preventing the contamination of groundwater supplies. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is responsible for monitoring public water supplies and for the regulation of public sewer systems. Individuals who are not served by public water and/or sewage receive water from a private well and/or sewage treatment from a private sewage disposal system (septic system). In Scott County, the Health Department works to assure that standards are met for these private systems.

Private Water Well Permit and Inspection Program

Assures that minimum standards are met for constructing, reconstructing, and plugging of non-public water supply wells (private wells).

Services:

  • Regulates the construction and installation of all private wells, including water, geothermal and irrigation wells.
  • Collects water samples from new and existing wells.
  • Provides financial assistance through the Grants for Counties Program to help residents pay for the cost of well abandonment, well rehabilitation, and well water sampling.

Private Sewage Disposal System Permit and Enforcement Program

Provides code enforcement consultation services for the design, construction and maintenance of private sewage disposal systems (PSDS) for private residences and commercial operations.

Services:

  • Regulate the design, construction and installation of all PSDS installed
  • Review all soil analysis and ensure proper sizing of PSDS.
  • Conduct inspections prior to and after installation of PSDS.
  • Provide consultations to residents of Scott County.
  • Sample PSDS with open discharges (regulation of the DNR).
  • Provides assistance with complaints relating to sewage treatment and disposal systems.
  • Reviews proposed subdivision plans and provides direction concerning PSDS and water supply.

For information on the local code for wells and septic systems: https://www.scottcountyiowa.gov/board/code-ordinances