Septic systems and private wells are an essential part of La Plata County’s rural infrastructure. Many of our residents rely on private wells for drinking water and septic systems to manage household wastewater.
When septic systems fail, contaminants can reach groundwater and nearby waterways, putting drinking water at risk. As new septic regulations took effect Monday, La Plata County Public Health encourages homeowners to maintain their septic systems and test private wells regularly to safeguard individual and community health. Protecting our groundwater is a shared responsibility.
The updated regulations apply to new installations, system replacements and significant repairs permitted after that date. These regulations are intended to strengthen public health protections and align local standards with Colorado’s Regulation 43.
Contractors and homeowners who are planning construction or upgrades to their wastewater systems are encouraged to contact La Plata County Public Health early in the planning stage to understand how the changes may apply.
La Plata County Public Health works in partnership with homeowners, contractors, engineers and septic system designers as they prepare for compliance with the new septic system regulations.
- The updated regulations do not require changes to existing systems that are properly functioning, unless they are being repaired or modified.
- Permits are still required for new systems, major repairs and alterations.
- Updated design and siting standards will reflect current state requirements under Colorado Regulation 43.
- Inspection and documentation procedures will follow state-aligned guidelines.
- The Transfer of Title Program will be renamed the Continued Use Permit Program.
- Septic systems will still be required to be inspected before a real estate transaction.
- When a new home is connected to an existing septic system, an inspection by a National Association of Wastewater Technicians inspector will be required.
- The Continued Use Permit Program allows La Plata County Public Health to conduct audits to ensure compliance and protect community water quality.
Private wells are not routinely monitored like public water systems, so annual testing is an important step for homeowners.
Because of our local geology, a small but significant percentage of wells throughout La Plata County have issues with contamination from metals and other minerals. At a minimum, most wells should be tested annually for nitrate and coliform bacteria (standard drinking water testing). Private well owners should also test for any contaminants that have shown elevated levels in historical tests.
La Plata County Public Health’s Water Quality Lab provides drinking water (coliform bacteria) testing for private well owners across Southwest Colorado and the Four Corners. Sample kits, collection instructions and educational resources are available to help homeowners collect quality samples and interpret results.
For septic guidance and water testing resources, visit lpcgov.org/septic and lpcgov.org/waterlab.
