Water Wells
Abandoned Water Wells
Kendall County relies solely on groundwater resources at this time and doesn't utilize any surface water supplies for drinking water. Deep and shallow wells tap groundwater supplies, called aquifers, throughout the county. Due to our dependence on groundwater, this resource is precious to the region and must be protected for current and future generations.
An abandoned well is classified as a well that no longer supplies water, or a well that is in such a state of disrepair that the well has the potential for transmitting contaminants into an aquifer or otherwise threatens public health or safety. Abandoned wells provide a direct route for contaminants to reach groundwater.
Some examples of abandoned wells include:
- Private wells disconnected and unused after a public water connection
- Old windmill-powered wells abandoned on farmsteads
- Unused hand pump wells
- Unused brick or clay-lined shallow dug wells
If you believe you have an abandoned well on your property, contact Environmental Health Services at 630-553-8026
Abandoned wells may be sealed by a state-licensed water well driller or by the property owner under permit and supervision of the health department. The packet below includes informational forms on cost programs and reduced-cost sealing products. These programs are of great benefit to homeowners trying to seal their own wells while keeping costs as low as possible.
The Kendall County Soil and Water Conservation District may offer technical assistance and a cost-share program for water well sealing.
Abandoned Well Packet
- Click here for the Well Permit Application.
- Click here for the Water Well Sealing Plan.
- Click here for the Bentonite Quality Calculations Chart.
Additional Links
Water Wells - Contractor
In an effort to simplify the paperwork process, we are providing you, the licensed contractor, with all forms necessary to acquire construction and repair permits. We have also provided memos from the State Health Department affecting your business, as well as helpful bulletins and links that may clarify some processes or answer some common questions concerning your line of work. You will also find on this page State codes and Kendall County Ordinances.
Well Permit Applications
- Click here for the Water Well Permit Application.
- Click here for the Dewatering Well Permit Application.
- Click here for the Closed Loop Geothermal System Application.
- Click here for the Well Sealing Affidavit (IDPH Form).
- Click here for the Well Construction Report (IDPH Form).
Governing Codes and Ordinances
- Click here for the Illinois Water Well Construction Code. (external PDF link)
- Click here for the Illinois Water Well Pump Installation Code. (external PDF link)
- Click here for the Kendall County Private Water Supply Ordinance.
Water Wells - Homeowner
Environmental Health Services is committed to ensuring a safe and sustainable water supply for the residents of Kendall County. The potable water supply program serves as the foundation of this effort. As part of this program, staff perform plan reviews, issue permits, and conduct inspections for the construction or repair of water wells, and for the capping or sealing of water wells. Additionally, staff perform investigations of drinking water-related issues and illness.
New and Existing Wells in Use - Well Permit Packet
Site Evaluations - for Building Department Related Projects
Private Water Supply Fact Sheets
Water Wells - Developer
Designing a residential subdivision for unincorporated Kendall County, out of reach of public water and sewer, requires special considerations and careful planning in the areas of onsite wastewater treatment and disposal, and onsite potable water supply. The developer will need to demonstrate to the health department in the early stages of planning, that each and every lot in a proposed subdivision will be able to be furnished with these fundamental yet essential living requirements. The health department, in accordance with Illinois' Plat Act (765 ILCS/205), is charged with requiring that such assurances are received.
The following information has been compiled with the residential developer in mind.
Plat Review Application
The Kendall County Health Department's Environmental Health Unit is available by appointment to meet with developers to discuss conceptual designs, as well as to assist with the plat review application process. Please call to schedule a time.
We also recommend you contact Kendall County Planning, Building, and Zoning at 630-553-4141.