An Individual Water System (IWS) serves or might ultimately serve up to 4 primary dwelling units on 1-4 parcels. An IWS source may be a domestic well, spring, horizontal well or an existing surface stream diversion.
Public wells (serving 5 or more connections and less than 199 connection) are required to obtain a county permit as a State Small Water System (5-14 connections) or a Small Water System Permit (15-199 connections).
Before proceeding with development of a property dependent on an individual water supply, an Individual Water System (IWS) Permit must be obtained. Obtaining a IWS permit means that the water source provides sufficient supply for the structures/parcels it will serve and meets water quality standards. Yield and water quality testing are required for new wells, and yield testing is required when there is a plan to increase water use outside the residiential dwelling unit. In most of the County, an accessory dwelling unite (ADU) is considered an extension of the existing dwelling unit and not an expanded use. In parts of the County identified as Limited Yield Areas, more extensive yield testing will be required for new wells, expanded use, and ADU construction.
Whenever an applicant seeks a permit for an individual water system which is to supply water to other properties in addition to the applicant’s, the applicant must submit a copy of a recorded deed showing not less than one-quarter individual interest in the water source, storage and transmission facilities, and the land upon which the system is situated. The applicant must also identify the holders of the remaining interests in the water system, and comply with the requirements of SCCC 7.73.050, 7.73.060 and 7.73.070.
If the source is a well, a pumping test must be performed by a licensed well driller, pumping contractor maintaining a C-61 license with a D-21 classification, registered engineer, Professional Geologist or Registered Environmental Health Specialist. If the source is from a spring or horizontal well a water yield determination can be made only during the months of August through October. Yield calculations for springs and horizontal wells must be made by a registered engineer, Professional Geologist, Registered Environmental Health Specialist or licensed well driller.
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