Check the Status of a Well Permit

Johnston County Environmental Health inspects, sites, and permits private drinking water wells and agricultural/irrigation in accordance with county well rules. This includes:

• Locating the well a safe distance from possible sources of contamination;
• Observing the grouting of the well to prevent potential avenues of contamination around the well casing;
• Obtaining water samples to ensure that the well is producing safe, potable water.

Associated Fees

Water Samples

Johnston County Environmental Health provides the public with a water sampling service that allows for water to be tested for several different parameters including:

• Bacteriological
• Chemical
• Nitrates and Nitrites
• Petroleum and Pesticides

A new drinking water well requires bacteriological, chemical and nitrate and nitrite samples to be taken. These samples must be free of coliform bacteria before a certificate of completion will be issued. The samples may be taken by a private lab.

Radionuclides: If you are interested in having your private drinking water well tested for radionuclides, only a private laboratory can perform this test. Follow this link for a list of certified labs that can perform this testing.

For assistance in interpreting water sample results, please consult the state lab or follow the links below:

• NC State Laboratory of Public Health - Environmental Sciences
• Check the Status of Your Bacteriological Sample
• Check the Status of Your Petroleum or Pesticide Sample
• Check the Status of your Chemical or Nitrate/Nitrite sample
• EPA Maximum Contaminant Levels for Drinking Water
• Quick Maximum Contaminant Levels

Important Links

• Well Abandonment Form
• Introduction to Water Wells
• Private Well Frequently Asked Questions
• Find a Certified Well Contractor
• How to Disinfect Your Water Well
• Is Your Well Water Safe?
• How to Properly Abandon a Well
• Basic Groundwater Flow
• Johnston County Local Well Ordinance