Wells

Safe Drinking water... we take it for granted, but everyone in the state depends on it. Safe water is essential for health, business prosperity, and community growth. What type of well do you receive your water from?

Private well

Who regulates private water wells? Wisconsin has had well regulations since 1936, and today is recognized as a national leader in well protection. NR 812 (formerly NR 112), Wisconsin Administrative Code, is administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The Well Code is based on the sound premise that if a well and water system is properly located, constructed, installed and maintained the well should provide safe water continuously without the need for treatment. Most county zoning and public health offices have a copy of the Well Code. For more information about the code, please contact a Department of Natural Resources regional water representative or a licensed well driller or pump installer.

Public well

Take a look at our Public Well diagram [PDF] for more information about the types of wells that serve drinking water to municipalities and other communities.

Part of the responsibility of a public water system owner is ensuring that customers get safe water to use and drink. Public water system owners face many distinct challenges in managing a public water supply, among them, providing adequate supplies to all users, preventing contamination, and planning for a system’s future needs. Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) oversees construction and operation of public water systems to make sure everyone has safe water to drink and use. However, as legal custodian of the water system, owners have primary responsibility to monitor drinking water quality. More...