Information for Wells, Septic Systems
and
Water Testing
Well
Plugging
County
has a grant that enables the county to pay up to $200.00
to plug a well. Cisterns may pay up to $200.00.
Wells of 100 feet for less may be plugged by the home
owner under the supervision of the Environmentalist.
Wells over 100 feet will be plugged by a State certified
well contractor and can be plugged under the
jurisdiction of the Environmentalist.
Wells that may be used later can be rehabilitated by a
well contractor. There is a grant to assist the
homeowner up to $600.00. A well permit must be obtained
prior to unplugging or digging a new well. The cost for
a well permit is $100.00.
Septic
Systems
County
endorses the State Code Chapter 69. This states that any
system not up to the current code is illegal. The board
of Health has endorsed this as has the Board of
Supervisors.
This code stipulates that no system may dump into a
tile, cesspool, well, ditch or any waterway including
roadside ditches. This is illegal and should be
corrected as soon as feasible.
The best time is when the property is transferred or
sold. Plumbers and realtors are aware of this and should
advise the homeowner of the procedure of correction.
A realtor, contractor or attorney who allows property to
transfer with out advising their client is subject to a
misdemeanor and could be fined.
If a person is dumping their waste onto your property,
this is another violation of Chapter 69 and must be
corrected. Chapter 69 Code of Iowa (567.69.1 455B)
Any time a new home or septic system is installed, the
individual must get a permit.
New Systems:
1. New septic systems need to have a site analysis
performed to determine location and amount of leach
line.
2. A 1,250 gallon tank is necessary for a 1,2 or 3
bedroom house.
3. All systems will utilize plastic distribution boxes.
Septic Permits must be obtained and paid for prior to
installation. The cost for a septic permit is $100.00.
Replacement of Old Systems:
All systems must be inspected before backfilling.
Contractors are encouraged to contact the County
Sanitarian, 24 hours before this is accomplished.
A map of the system must be
submitted to the County Sanitarian
.
All systems are kept on file at the Plymouth County
Sanitarians office.
Water
Rural well users should have their water tested,
especially if there is a large run off in the spring and
your well is in a pit, or less than 100 feet deep.
Contact the Sanitarian for water testing.
No Fee for testing. Contact
Plymouth County Sanitarian.
Permits must be obtained when new
wells are constructed.