All domestic personal use and lawn and garden water wells installed in the city limits of Wichita require a permit prior to drilling. The homeowner or a licensed well driller may obtain a Water Well Permit Application online or from the Department of Environmental Services.
The completed permit application form may be submitted by fax, mail, or directly to the Environmental Services Department. A completed application and site plan must be received along with $150 fee (includes application fee and inspection fee) prior to application approval by the department. The application will be reviewed by department staff and returned to the applicant.
Once the well has been installed the homeowner shall notify the Environmental Services Department for inspection. The well installer is required to complete the drilling form WWC-5 and return it to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Environmental Services Department within 30 days of drilling the well. After installation the well will be inspected by the Department of Environmental Services and upon approval the completed permit will be mailed to the property owner.
Water well owners are completely responsible for overseeing the safety of their water.
The Environmental Services Department recommends testing at least once a year for bacteria and nitrates. The Environmental Services Department offers testing of personal use water wells for bacteria and nitrates; $25.00 per individual sample.
For potential buyers of property with an existing well the Department of Environmental Services (DES) offers inspection services, and reporting. Inspection fees are $125.00 plus additional sampling fees of $25.00 for each individual sample.
Surrounding land uses and past history of property can offer clues on what tests to run. Brochures available through the Sedgwick County Extension Service, (316) 722-7721, are valuable resources. "Suggested Water Tests for Private Systems" and "Questions to Ask Before Buying Water Treatment Equipment" are both excellent resources. Be cautious when considering the purchase of water treatment equipment.
| What can You do to Help Ensure the Safety of Your Water Supply? |
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Make sure your well is properly constructed and located - hire a professional.
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Make sure your sewage disposal system is properly constructed and located - hire a professional.
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Have your water tested at least once a year for bacteria and nitrates.
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