Private water systems are used where public water is unavailable. Private water sources can come from wells, cisterns, ponds, and springs. Because Clermont County’s geology makes it difficult to install wells, cisterns are the most used private water system locally.
Any private water system can carry harmful contaminants. Clermont County Public Health helps to prevent homeowners from becoming sick from improperly treated private water supplies.
If you plan to build a home in an area without public water, you will need to submit an application for a private water system. The Ohio Department of Health regulates private water systems.
Private Water System Inspections
In Clermont County, each private water system is inspected when it is installed. After the initial inspection, the systems are not inspected unless the homeowner or a potential buyer requests an inspection.
During an inspection, if the water does not contain fecal contamination, then the system is working correctly. Any upgrades to your private water system must be reviewed and approved through a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clermont County Public Health reviews and approves the installation of all private water systems to ensure they have the proper components to provide safe drinking water.
You must submit the following information and a completed application form to apply for a private water system. We cannot begin your application without all the required documentation.
Site Plan – You must bring a site plan of the property to our office (2275 Bauer Road). If you are building a new home, the site plan used for the application for the construction of a household sewage treatment system should be sufficient. The site plan should indicate where you would like the private water system. You are required to apply for your private water system at the same time as you apply for your household sewage treatment system. Both systems must be reviewed before you can get a building permit for new construction.
Registered Contractor – When you apply for your private water system, you must provide the name of the contractor you have chosen. Please ensure the contractor is registered and bonded with the Ohio Department of Health as a private water system contractor.
Marking the Site – Other than adhering to setbacks established in the OAC 3701-28-10(G), the homeowner can determine the location of the private water system. We recommend that the cistern is set in a location that is easily accessed by a water hauling truck in case you need water delivered to your home. Please clearly mark the location of the proposed private water system at the site so that Public Health staff can evaluate the system for meeting the minimum setback requirements.
First, complete the Inspection Request Form.
During an inspection, all system components will be checked. Homeowners must provide access for the inspector to look inside the cistern.
We will collect water samples and send them to a lab to test for total coliform bacteria and E. coli. If the sample contains either of these organisms, it can make anyone who consumes water from the system sick.
If we find bacteria in your water, we recommend disinfecting your system. You can call for a reinspection once you’ve disinfected and cleaned your system.
Please note Public Health only tests for E.coli and fecal coliform. If you want to test for other parameters, contact a private water lab.
Before scheduling an inspection, consider cleaning your cistern and hauled water storage tanks.
Periodically, cisterns and hauled water storage tanks should be cleaned thoroughly. Because cisterns collect rainwater from the roof, they can collect contaminants.
Hauled water storage tank systems do not need to be cleaned as often as cisterns.
Likewise, chlorine routinely should be added to your cistern. If chlorine isn’t added, then you should disinfect your cistern routinely. If your cistern has an automatic chlorinator, check the water for chlorine to ensure it works. You can use a chlorine test kit to see if chlorine is in the water.
Well Disinfection Instructions
Cistern Disinfection Instructions
Cistern Cleaning Instructions
Cisterns, wells, and hauled water storage tanks no longer intended for use must be properly abandoned in accordance with the Private Water System Rules (OAC Chapter 3701-28), per the Ohio Department of Health. Only registered water system contractors can seal a private water system. A list of registered contractors is maintained by the Ohio Department of Health.
Abandoning Private Water System Fact Sheet
