RURALPROPERTYCHECK.COM
Rural Water vs. a Private Well Before Buying Land
Questions to ask about rural water service, meter availability, private wells, water quality and parcel-specific connection costs.
First determine whether the real plan is public or rural water, an existing private well, a new well—or no confirmed source yet.
Identify the actual provider for the parcel. Then ask whether it is accepting new connections, whether a meter or membership is currently available, where the nearest eligible line is located and what charges or construction are required.
Do not assume a neighbor's well predicts the cost, depth, yield or quality on the parcel. Investigate available well records, local geology, drilling access, setbacks, testing and the ongoing responsibility for operation and water quality.
The EPA notes that private wells are not regulated under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and that owners are responsible for maintaining and testing their water. State and local requirements can still apply.
Public-water-system, groundwater, water-right and related map resources.
Open OWRB maps ↗Owner-focused information on protecting and testing private well water.
Open EPA resources ↗Carry the local connection or well range into the full property budget.
Plan the cost →