Water & Septic Services

What This Is

Water and septic services in Fulton County include permits, inspections, and evaluations for private water supplies and sewage disposal systems.

These services help ensure safe water, proper waste disposal, and compliance with local and state regulations.

Who This Is For

This page is for:

  • Homeowners installing or repairing systems
  • Property buyers and sellers
  • Contractors and installers
  • Developers planning subdivisions
Private water well and septic system services in Fulton County Illinois

Water & Septic System Services

Private Water Wells

Services include:

  • Water well permits
  • Water testing information
  • Evaluation of wells during property transfer

All wells on a property — even if not used for drinking water — must be evaluated during a sale.
Unused wells are considered abandoned and must be either:

  • Brought into operation, or
  • Properly sealed under health department supervision

Private Sewage Disposal (Septic Systems)

Services include:

  • Septic system permits
  • Inspections and evaluations
  • Property transfer requirements

Private sewage systems must meet all health and safety requirements before installation or transfer of ownership.

Property Transfers

If a property is being sold in Fulton County:

  • The private water well must be evaluated
  • The septic system must be inspected

This ensures systems are safe and functioning properly before transfer.

Before You Call

Be ready to provide:

  • Property address or location
  • Type of request (permit, inspection, evaluation, subdivision, etc.)
  • Any known system details

This helps staff direct you quickly.

Subdivision Plat Review

When a subdivision of land in Fulton County results in one or more parcels less than 5 acres in size, the subdivision is subject to a plat review.

When This Applies

A plat review is required when a proposed subdivision:

  • Includes parcels smaller than 5 acres
  • Will be served by a private sewage disposal system
  • Will use a water supply other than a public community water system

What Must Be Submitted

The owner or developer must submit the following to the Fulton County Health Department – Environmental Health Division:

  • Plat Review Application
  • A plat showing each lot
  • A soil report including at least one soil boring per lot

Before You Submit

Make sure:

  • Each lot is clearly shown on the plat
  • Soil borings are completed for every lot
  • All required information is included

Incomplete submissions may delay review.

Water Testing

Testing kits are available through the health department:

  • Bacteria test kits — $20
  • Nitrate/Nitrite test kits — $50

Call for availability and instructions.

What to Do Next

Staff will guide you to the correct process, application, or next step.

Not Sure Where to Start?

If you are unsure what applies to your situation, call the main number and explain your project or property. Staff will help determine the correct requirements.