Irrigation wells
Shallow irrigation wells are a common way to water lawns without using county water. The tradeoff is untreated water: iron that stains, sulfur that smells and sediment that clogs heads. See iron stains and sulfur smell.
Permits in Broward
The Florida Department of Health in Broward County requires a permit for all water wells 12 inches in diameter or smaller, including irrigation wells, before construction, repair, modification or abandonment, and the work must be done by a licensed driller. Questions or reports of unpermitted drilling: 954-412-7334.
Drinking wells
- Test for bacteria and nitrate at least once a year, and after flooding or repairs.
- The Department of Health also suggests testing for lead every three years.
- Use a certified lab for health-related tests.
Treatment is built from results: sediment, iron, hydrogen sulfide, hardness and disinfection are separate stages. See the well water system.
Also note the well's age, depth if known, and any past test results. A well that has not been tested in years should be tested before any treatment is chosen, so the equipment matches the water you have now.
Keep well and county water apart
If you have county water and a well, the two systems must stay separated so well water cannot flow back into the public lines. Ask a licensed plumber to confirm the arrangement if you are unsure, especially before adding treatment.
How Living Water configures it
Jorge screens iron, hardness, pH and TDS on site, tells you what a lab should check, and configures treatment from the numbers. Compare approaches in UV vs. RO for well water.
Signs a well needs attention
- New stains on walls, pavers or the pool deck.
- A sulfur smell when the sprinklers run.
- Clogged heads or slime in the lines.
- Changes after flooding or heavy storms.
Any of these is a reason to test the well water before adding equipment.
Book a screening
Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974. Living Water offers financing through its financing partners; you apply with a credit application, and a co-applicant can apply with you.
https://www.floridahealth.gov/community-environmental-public-health/environmental-public-health/water-quality/drinking-water/private-wells/
https://broward.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/environmental-public-health/water-well-construction/
https://www.floridahealth.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/well-water-facts-odor-staining.pdf
https://www.cityofwestpark.org/about-us/frequently-asked-questions
https://www.broward.org/waterservices/WaterQualityReport
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist