Location of wells

1. Relation to sources of contamination. Determination of minimum lateral distances of a well from potential sources of contamination, involves evaluation of the character and location of the sources of contamination, types of geologic formations, depth to the aquifer, effect on ground water movement by well pumping, and possibilities of flooding of the site by surface waters. Based on experience, accepted minimum lateral distances for some common sources of pollution with respect to a well have been established. The lack of specific distances for other possible sources of contamination such as refuse disposal sites, excavations, waste treatment facilities, buried oil and gasoline storage tanks, improperly constructed wells and cisterns, etc., does not minimize their potential hazards. The site should be on high ground and be: a. At least one hundred feet [30.48 meters] (fifty feet [15.24 meters] for private wells) from privy pits, cesspools, septic tanks, absorption fields, barnyards, feedlots, high water marks of lakes, streams, sloughs, ponds, etc., when well is constructed in unconsolidated soils with filtering properties. b. At least thirty feet [9.14 meters] from sewerlines. c. At least ten feet [3.05 meters] from basements or pits. d. At least twenty feet [6.1 meters] from overhead powerlines and other hazardous devices. Note section 24-02-01-03. Greater distances are always preferable and often necessary, depending upon soil conditions. When wells are constructed in consolidated formations, care must be taken in locating the wells as pollutants have traveled great distances in such formations. 2. Relation to buildings. When a well must be located adjacent to a building, it shall be located so that the centerline of the well extended vertically will clear any projection from the building by not less than two feet [60.96 centimeters]. Every well shall be reasonably accessible for proper repair, cleaning, testing, inspection, or other attention as may be necessary. The well casing shall not extend through nor shall the top of the well casing or any other well opening terminate in the basement of any building or in a pit, room, or other space which is below ground surface.