Water approval is the first step to get a permit if you want to develop your property or business.
If you need Drinking Water approval for a:
New Septic System
The requirements depend on your water supply. All water systems must meet public health standards.
Large Water System Service Area
- You need to complete a Certificate of Water Availability.
Individual well
- New or existing wells need water approval before septic approval.
Unapproved water system
- You can email us for approval.
Platting, Binding Site Plan or Boundary Line Adjustment
You need our approval for new lots or changes to existing boundary lines.
- Plat/Land Division Submittal Standards
- Plat/Land Division FAQs
- Boundary Line Adjustment FAQs
- Plat/Land Division Submittal Checklist and Application
- Certificate of Water Availability
Food Establishments, Schools, Pools and Camps
We review and approve new facilities and changes to:
- Existing menus.
- Equipment.
- Designs.
- Floor plans.
You need to:
- Complete the Water Adequacy Verification.
- Have a copy of a current water bill, or a Certificate of Water Availability.
You can read more about:
Childcare centers
Starting a new childcare? Your water must be from an approved public water system.
- Submit a Water Adequacy Form with a current water bill.
Temporary Event
Advertised public events that serve food must:
- Have water from an approved public water system.
- Complete a Water Adequacy Form or apply online.
Sell or refinance my property (real estate).
When you buy or sell a home, know if your water supply is safe, reliable and meets disclosure requirements.
Wells
We review and approve new wells in Pierce County.
Drill a new individual well (one house).
- Individual Well Guide and Application
- Online Application
- Steps to help you develop a residential property.
Drill a public well (more than one house or business).
Well start notification.
Well seal verification form.
Enhanced storage form.
Irrigation guidance.
Resources
Pierce County Planning and Public Works must review all proposed wells for water-right exemption. The Department of Ecology has more resources for you.
Add additional dwelling unit (ADU) on my property.
The requirements vary. You can schedule a consultation to discuss your project.
Develop or expand a public water system.
If you are starting a new system, you can schedule a consultation. Make sure to read the Group B Water System checklist.
Get an existing water system approved.
If you have an existing, unapproved public water system, schedule a consultation. We will help you review the application and requirements. View the Existing Group B Water System checklist.
Decommission a well.
You need a licensed well-driller.
Not able to meet our requirements?
You can request a variance/waiver. You can schedule a consultation with us talk about it.