Wells and Septic Systems
Septic systems that flow into ditch, field tile, creek, etc. are Illegal. They must have secondary treatment such as a soil absorption field. If they don't, they are NOT grandfathered in. They either have secondary treatment or they are illegal.
- You and Your Septic System
- Chapter 69: Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems
In addition to free water testing, there is a $500 incentive for proper closure of all-private, abandoned wells and a $1,000 incentive for proper sealing/rehabilitation of private wells.
The goal of Iowa's Groundwater Protection Act was to prevent further contamination of groundwater. Abandoned wells offer a direct pathway for contaminants to enter a groundwater aquifer. Some large diameter wells can also be a safety hazard to small children who can fall into well casings.
Any well that is no longer in use, or is in such poor physical condition that it cannot be repaired to be safely used, must be plugged. This applies to all wells, including public drinking water wells, monitoring wells, commercial wells, private wells and irrigation wells.
Abandoned wells can either be plugged, renovated, or repaired to standby condition. A well in standby condition has been repaired and capped to prevent contamination but remains operational when the cap is removed. Each option meets the goal of protecting groundwater from contamination and people from physical harm.
Contact us for well permits and septic permits. For more information about grants and low-cost loan availability, call Taylor Hillman, Worth County Sanitarian, at 319-830-1276 or email [email protected].
Private Septic Systems
- Iowa DNR Wastewater Disposal Program
- Residential Wastewater Treatment Overview
- Chapter 68: Septic Tanks Cleaners
- Chapter 69: Onsite Waste Water Treatment and Disposal
- Chapter 93: Onsite Wastewater Assistance Loan Program
- Septic Tank Pumping
