Wells & Drinking Water

Scott County has resumed the sale of water test kits. Please follow the procedures on the new purchase form as the process has changed. Drop off of water test kit samples will resume on Wednesdays only from 8am - Noon by appointment at the Scott County Government Center.

About Our Drinking Water Supply

Scott County is situated geologically in an area where groundwater is plentifully available, which is relied upon for its drinking water supply. Drinking water is provided to Scott County residents from either a municipal water source or their own private well. However, in parts of the County, this drinking water supply is susceptible to contamination from activities at the surface or from naturally occurring contaminants.

Most residents of Scott County get their water from a public water system such as their city water supply. Public water systems are highly regulated and frequently tested. Federal, state and local agencies all have roles in protecting public drinking water supplies.

Municipal Wells

Each water supplier in Scott County operates independently and is guided by federal and state regulations. Since 1996, all public water suppliers must prepare and distribute annual reports called Consumer Confidence Reports or Drinking Water Reports. These reports provide detailed information for their customers about their water treatment methods and test results. In addition to mailing these reports to residents, most Scott County municipalities post their Consumer Confidence Report or Drinking Water Report on their website.

Private Wells

Since 1974, all water wells constructed in Minnesota must meet requirements specified by the Minnesota Well Code. Wells can provide safe water for many years, but as wells age, they may deteriorate and lose their ability to keep contaminants out of the water. Private water wells however do not have the same testing requirements as municipal wells. Private water wells are only required to be tested for nitrates and arsenic at the time of install. The responsibility of maintaining the well and testing the water all falls on the homeowner.  

Homeowner responsibilities: