Well Water Supply Program

Permitting Process

All wells drilled or repaired in Hamilton County are required to be permitted and drinking water wells should be sampled before being released for use. Well permits must be obtained from the Hamilton County Health Department. Applicants may receive a Well Water Permit Application from the Health Department or by downloading a copy of the permit application (PDF)

Well Samples

Once a well is drilled or repaired it should be sampled to ensure a safe drinking water supply. The Hamilton County Health Department will sample the well using the Indiana State Health Department laboratory or applicants may use a state certified laboratory for water sample analysis. For a list of Indiana Certified Drinking Water Laboratories, visit the Indiana State Health Department. This list of laboratories is merely provided as an information tool to assist individuals wanting to receive sampling information. The Hamilton County health Department does not endorse one particular laboratory. Water samples from other certified laboratories which are not listed will be accepted by the Hamilton County Health Department.

Well Chlorination

Water samples occasionally return unsatisfactory and may require additional disinfection. Well Chlorination Procedures (PDF) for drinking water supplies are available through the Hamilton County Health Department.

Abandoned Wells

Wells that are abandoned in Hamilton County are also required to submit an IDNR abandonment log, which is recorded to the well permit and related parcel for future reference.  The Department of Natural Resources promulgated Rule 310 IAC 16-10-1 to provide guidance to the public in dealing with unused wells and proper abandonment. The Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District provides funding to cap wells. The application must be submitted and approved before the capping is started. Click here for details on the HCSWD well capping website.  


Further Information

If you have any questions regarding wells and safe water supplies, please feel free to contact the Hamilton County Health Department.