Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 770 - WATER WELL STANDARDS ADVISORY COUNCIL
Here is a summary of the Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia – Department 770: WATER WELL STANDARDS ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Department 770 – Water Well Standards Advisory Council
The Water Well Standards Advisory Council operates under the authority of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR). It is tasked with recommending and overseeing standards for the construction, operation, and abandonment of water wells in Georgia, with the primary objective of protecting groundwater resources.
Key Regulations and Provisions:
770-1: Rules of the Water Well Standards Advisory Council
This is the principal chapter under Department 770 and includes the following:
770-1-.01 Purpose and Authority
Establishes the purpose of the rules: to ensure public health and groundwater protection by regulating water well construction and abandonment practices.
Based on authority from the Water Well Standards Act of 1985 (O.C.G.A. § 12-5-120 et seq.).
770-1-.02 Definitions
Provides definitions for terms like:
Water well contractor
Monitoring well
Grouting
Abandonment, etc.
770-1-.03 Construction Standards
Sets minimum technical standards for:
Casing materials
Well depth
Grouting and sealing
Sanitary protection
Intended to prevent contamination of groundwater.
770-1-.04 Licensing of Water Well Contractors
Requires water well drillers and pump installers to obtain a license from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD).
Licenses are contingent upon testing, experience, and compliance with the rules.
770-1-.05 Reporting and Record-Keeping
Licensed contractors must submit well completion reports to EPD.
Records must include:
Location
Depth
Construction methods
Yield
Water quality (if tested)
770-1-.06 Abandonment of Wells
Establishes procedures to seal or decommission wells that are no longer in use, to prevent them from becoming a conduit for contamination.
Requires grouting or backfilling with approved materials.
770-1-.07 Enforcement and Penalties
Provides authority to inspect well installations.
Violations may result in license suspension/revocation or civil penalties.
770-1-.08 Advisory Council Duties
Reviews and recommends changes to construction and licensing standards.
Works in cooperation with DNR and public health agencies.
Key Objectives of the Council and Its Rules:
Safeguard groundwater quality.
Promote responsible well drilling practices.
Ensure professional competency in well installation.
Provide guidance and education to contractors and the public.
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