Water Wells

Staff inspect and monitor private, semi-private and supplemental irrigation wells along with non-community water systems to protect groundwater from contamination and assure safe drinking water for citizens of Lake County in both incorporated and unincorporated areas. We also ensure minimum standards in the Lake County Code, Chapter 170 are enforced to determine the location, construction and modification of water wells, including closed loop geothermal wells, installation of water well pumps and related equipment.

Well Spudder

Promoting and Maintaining Safe Drinking Water

We provide information about promoting and maintaining safe drinking water by consulting with well contractors, homeowners and environmental consultants. We also provide early assistance to help with projects such as a tear-down/rebuild on a site with an existing water well.

We respond to any water well related complaints including answering questions about water quality (bacteria, chemical, aesthetic issues), the well ordinance and permit fees.

New wells are inspected after installation and sampled prior to being placed into service. Abandoned wells are inspected to assure they are properly sealed to protect the aquifer.

Obtaining a Water Testing Kit

To obtain a water testing kit, please stop by our office or one of our water sample kit participants. The kit includes a sealed water sample bottle, laboratory form and instructions for taking the sample. 

For further information regarding water testing, please contact us at 847-377-8020. 

Types of Water Wells in Lake County

  • Private water well serves the residents of an owner-occupied dwelling.
  • Semi-private water well serves fewer than 25 residents who do not own the supply, or own it collectively.
  • Non-community water well serves 25 or more non-residents at least  60 days per year.
  • Community water well is a public water system which serves at least 15 service connections used by residents or regularly serves at least 25 residents for a least 60 days per year. This type of well is regulated by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.
  • Abandoned well is a water well that is no longer used to supply water, or is in such a state of disrepair that has potential to contaminate the groundwater or otherwise threatens the public health and safety.
  • Closed Loop Well is a sealed watertight loop of pipe buried outside of a building foundation intended to re-circulate a liquid solution through a heat exchanger. The loop well can be drilled vertically or horizontally.

Resources