Information for Wells, Septic Systems
and Water Testing

Well Plugging
Tama County has a grant that enables the county to pay up to $400.00 to plug a well. Cisterns may pay up to $300.00.

Wells of 100 feet for less may be plugged by the home owner under the supervision of the Environmentalist. Wells over 100 feet will be plugged by a State certified well contractor and can be plugged under the jurisdiction of the Environmentalist.

Wells that may be used later can be rehabilitated by a well contractor. There is a grant to assist the homeowner up to $600.00. A well permit must be obtained prior to unplugging or digging a new  well. The cost for a well permit is $75.00.

Septic Systems
Tama County endorses the State Code Chapter 69. This states that any system not up to the current code is illegal. The board of Health has endorsed this as has the Board of Supervisors.

This code stipulates that no system may dump into a tile, cesspool, well, ditch or any waterway including roadside ditches. This is illegal and should be corrected as soon as feasible.

The best time is when the property is transferred or sold. Plumbers and realtors are aware of this and should advise the homeowner of the procedure of correction.

A realtor, contractor or attorney who allows property to transfer with out advising their client is subject to a misdemeanor and could be fined.

If a person is dumping their waste onto your property, this is another violation of Chapter 69 and must be corrected. Chapter 69 Code of Iowa (567.69.1 455B)

Any time a new home or septic system is installed, the individual must get a permit.

New Systems:
1. New septic systems need to have a site analysis performed to determine location and amount of leach line.
2. A 1,250 gallon tank is necessary for a 1,2 or 3 bedroom house.
3. A permit fee should be paid by the contractor to Tama County Public Health to secure a percolation and soil evaluation test.
4. All systems will utilize plastic distribution boxes.

A list of current contractors is available at the Tama County Public Health office.

Septic Permits must be obtained and paid for prior to installation. The cost for a septic permit is $150.00 and $75.00 for a re-inspection of a septic system.

Replacement of Old Systems:
All systems must be inspected before backfilling. Contractors are encouraged to contact the Environmentalist, Lee Wiges, 24 hours before this is accomplished. Contractors are also asked to pay the permit fee.

Homeowners will receive a detailed map of the system and a "Do and Don't" guidelines for taking care of the system. All systems are kept on file at the Tama County Public Health office.

Water
Rural well users should have their water tested, especially if there is a large run off in the spring and your well is in a pit, or less than 100 feet deep.

A fee of $20.00 will be charged for water tests requested by homeowners.

Occasionally the Sanitarian will initiate multiple well tests.  Homeowners will be notified of the testing by postcard.  Well water testing initiated by the Sanitarian is free. 

Indoor Air Quality
Upon request, Tama County will assist with inspection of indoor air quality for homes. Asthma and other indoor problems will be discussed.

Radon kits are sold at $5.00 each and should be monitored by the homeowner and Environmentalist.

Indoor Air Study of Home is $20.00