Are there setbacks for wells?

Yes. Please refer to the following table with regard to well setbacks: 

FROM                                                                                                        MINIMUM DISTANCE SETBACK (IN FEET)

Property Line                                                                                                                        50 

Easements                                                                                                                            5 

Septic tank and septic system pumps                                                                                  100 

Public or private sewer pipe line of approved water-tight piping and joint materials             25 

Other public or private approved sewer line                                                                          50 

Individual sewage disposal field                                                                                           100 

Community sewage disposal field                                                                                         200 

Pit privy                                                                                                                                 150 

Animal or fowl enclosures (pastures excluded)                                                                    100 

Seepage pit                                                                                                                           150 

Where, in the opinion of the Nevada County Environmental Health Department (NCEHD), adverse conditions exist, these distances may be increased as determined by the NCEHD. 

A five (5) foot minimum setback from property line shall be permitted for a Class I well if the adjoining property meets one or more of the following: 

 Is three (3) acres or greater in size.  Has a developed or approved sewage disposal system (including repair area) that is 100 feet of the proposed well location. 

 Has features that would preclude development of a sewage disposal system (including repair area) within 100 feet of the proposed well location. 

 Has a well which precluded developments of a septic system within 100 feet of the proposed well location. 

Show All Answers

1. What is needed to install a water well in Nevada County?
2. I’m a certified well driller, can I apply online?
3. Is testing required for my new well?
4. What are coliform?
5. Are there setbacks for wells?
6. Does NCEHD monitor groundwater levels or water well use for private wells?
7. Can NCEHD limit the amount of water extracted from private wells?