Wells

The Orange County Health Department is committed to the protection of our groundwater resources in order to assure a safe and adequate supply of water for our citizens. Approximately 40 percent of Orange County’s population relies on ground water as their source of drinking water. Protection of this resource is accomplished through proper location, construction, permitting and inspection of wells.

Well Rules 

• Groundwater Protection Rules for Orange County (2022)
  

Well Resources

• Well Camera Report Form
• Well Repair Fund for American Stone Quarry Area
• Well Repair Fund for the Orange County Landfill Area
• Find a Well Contractor
  

Quick Links

• Well Water and Health - North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
• Environmental Protection Agency - Drinking Water Contaminants
• Environmental Protection Agency - Ground Water and Drinking Water
• Environmental Protection Agency - Safe Drinking Water Limits
• State Laboratory of Public Health
• Sulfur Bacteria and Rotten Egg Odors in Water

Well FAQs

Do I need a permit to drill or repair a well?

Yes. You need a permit from the Health Department before you drill a new well or repair an existing one. To get a permit, you must fill out and submit an application.

There is a fee for new well permits and well repair permits. There is no fee to abandon (properly close) a well.

How do I take care of my well?

A well that is built and protected the right way can last for many years. Most modern drilled wells can handle drought conditions, but using water wisely helps protect your well and makes your septic system last longer too. (Your wallet will thank you.)

Make sure your well:

• Is protected from freezing

• Does not have standing water around it

• Is kept clean and secure at all times

When does a well need to be abandoned—and why?

If a well is no longer being used, it must be properly closed (abandoned). An open or unprotected well can let harmful chemicals and bacteria move quickly into the groundwater. That pollution can spread and contaminate nearby wells.

Unused wells are also a serious safety risk and can create legal problems for the property owner. In short: unused wells are bad news—close them the right way.

How can I test my private drinking water?

You can apply for water testing through the Environmental Health Office. Testing your water regularly helps make sure it is safe to drink.

What should I do if bacteria are found in my well?

If bacteria are found, the well should be disinfected by chlorinating it. This means adding chlorine at a level of 100 parts per million (ppm). For a 6-inch well, this equals 4.4 ounces of dry chlorine for every 100 feet of water.

After the chlorine has been flushed out, you should apply for a follow-up water test to make sure the problem is fixed.