County Sanitary Code

The Pratt County Sanitary Code was initially adopted in 1988 and is currently being revised/updated. It establishes standards for location and construction of private water well and wastewater disposal systems. When needed it may address other environmental issues. County sanitary code requirements and minimum standards can significantly reduce potential health and environmental hazards. We all need to do our part to protect our drinking water.

Benefits

Some benefits of a sanitary code include:

• Prevention of public health risks from bacteria, viruses, nitrate and other impairments.
• Protection of both groundwater and surface water resources.
• Homeowners are more likely to receive a properly designed and constructed system when code construction standards, permitting and inspection requirements are specified.
• Property values can be preserved or enhanced. An adequate and safe water supply and functional wastewater treatment system makes property more valuable than property that does not have adequate water and wastewater facilities.

Change?

Can the Sanitary Code be expanded to address other environmental issues? Yes! The current code can be amended and expanded to address many nonpoint sources of pollution, including household hazardous waste, illegal trash dumping, livestock confinement and nuisance conditions. The establishment of wellhead protection areas for public water supplies is another powerful mechanism that can be utilized in sanitary codes.

For more information or if you have questions about the sanitary code please contact our office. You may obtain additional information by contacting K-State Research and Extension Dept. of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Kansas Department of Health and Environment or, the Division of Environment, Bureau of Water.