Clean, safe water is essential for good health—and everyone deserves it. At BFHD, we’re here to help make sure your water is safe to drink.
Here’s how we support you:
- Protecting small water systems through permits and regular oversight.
- Helping well owners with education and expert advice on water quality.
- Offering water testing so you can be confident about what’s coming from your tap.
Where Does My Water Come From?
If you live in a city or town, your water probably comes from a large municipal water system that serves many households.
If you live outside city limits, your water may come from a small community system or your own private well.
Water System Classifications
- Group A Public Water Systems are classified as a community system with 15 or more connections or serves greater than 25 or more people per day for 60 days or more per year (e.g., large commercial water system).
- Group B Public Water Systems are classified as a community system with 3 to 14 connections and less than 25 people per day or serves 25 or more people per day during fewer than 60 days per year.
- A 2-Unit Residential Water System is one well serving two residences and is regulated by BFHD under Rules and Regulations No. 2.
- Small Commercial Water Systems is one well serving a small public population through a business or services and is regulated by BFHD under Rules and Regulations No. 7.
- Individual Well is classified as a private single-family well with 1 single-family residential connection or irrigation well.
How Can I Learn About My Water System?
- Check your water bill – the system name is usually listed.
- Ask your neighbors – they often share the same source.
- Call BFHD Environmental Health at 509-460-4205. Please provide your name, site address, and any questions so we can assist you.
How do I check about my water systems' quality data?
- Consumer confidence report. The Washington State Department of Health oversees drinking water for larger systems. Most public water systems make their water quality data available to the public. You can request a copy of their Consumer
- Sentry Internet. You can also see the Washington State Water System Data for your water system testing results to see what's in your drinking water.
- Test your water. Private well owners are responsible for ensuring the safety of their own water supply. The Department of Health recommends annual testing for coliform bacteria and nitrate, as these contaminants may pose an immediate health risk, even after a single exposure.
Got nitrates?
If your drinking water contains, or you suspect it may contain, nitrates, please visit the Alternative Water Program page for detailed information on this potential health risk.