Private Well Water Systems

Good quality drinking water may be consumed in the desired amount without adverse effect on health. Such water is called “potable”. It is free from harmful levels of impurities: bacteria, viruses, minerals, and organic substances. It is also aesthetically acceptable. Private well owners are responsible for ensuring that their well water is safe to drink.

Wells can become  contaminated from bacteria and nitrates for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it is obvious, when flood waters enter the well, but many times it is not as obvious, for example when septic tanks fail, fertilizers seep into the ground water, or into streams and canals, or someone illegally dumps chemicals or sewage. Either way drinking contaminated water can  make you and your family ill. Superchlorination followed by dechlorination is the most common solution for potential bacteria in the water supply.

Is Your Well Water Well? (PDF 1MB)     Video

Private Well Water Testing (floridahealth.gov)

NELAP Certified Laboratory Search (floridadep.gov)

Private Drinking Water Wells Fact Sheet (PDF 48KB)

South Florida Water Management District (sfwmd.gov)