Select a city below to view local well water testing services in your area. Each city page lists providers offering lab testing, field sampling, or mail-in well water tests.
Select a city to view local well water testing services near you.
North Dakota's rural character means many households rely on private wells for drinking water. The state's geology varies from the Red River Valley in the east to the Missouri Plateau in the west, creating different groundwater conditions across regions.
North Dakota does not have a statewide mandate requiring private well water testing at property sale. The state takes a recommendation-based approach, with guidance from the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality and local health districts.
Agricultural activity across North Dakota can affect groundwater quality, with nitrates being a concern in some areas. Some regions also have naturally occurring contaminants. Testing is the only way to know what's in your specific well water.
North Dakota does not have a statewide law requiring private well water testing for property sales. Testing is recommended but voluntary for existing private domestic wells.
For new well construction, testing may be required depending on local regulations and the permitting process. Check with your local health district for specific requirements when drilling a new well.
State guidance recommends regular testing as a matter of good practice. The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality and local health districts encourage annual testing for bacteria and nitrates.
Real estate transactions often include testing. Mortgage lenders frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence.
The baseline testing recommended everywhere applies in North Dakota: total coliform bacteria and E. coli for sanitary integrity, plus nitrates which pose health risks to infants and pregnant women. Annual testing for these parameters is recommended.
Agricultural activity across North Dakota-grain farming, livestock operations-can contribute to nitrate levels in groundwater. If you're in an agricultural area, nitrate testing is particularly important.
Some North Dakota groundwater has high mineral content. Hardness, sulfate, and total dissolved solids may be elevated. While not necessarily health hazards, these affect water taste and usability.
Consider testing for: lead (especially with older plumbing), arsenic (some areas), iron and manganese (common aesthetic issues), and any contaminants identified as local concerns by your health district.
Every year
At least once, repeat every 3-5 years
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in North Dakota depend on what you're testing for. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are generally affordable. Adding metals or comprehensive panels increases the cost.
Local health districts may provide well water testing services or can direct you to certified labs. The North Dakota State Laboratory and private certified labs also serve well owners.
Turnaround time follows typical patterns: bacteria results within a few days (samples are time-sensitive), chemical tests within 5-10 business days. North Dakota's climate means winter sample handling may require attention to prevent freezing.
For real estate transactions, plan ahead. Allow adequate time for sample collection, transport, analysis, and any follow-up if issues are found.
North Dakota well owners can choose from certified laboratories, local health district programs, state lab services, and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results, use certified labs.
Local health districts can be valuable resources. They may offer testing services, provide guidance on what to test for, and understand local groundwater conditions.
The North Dakota State Laboratory Department provides testing services for various parameters. Check their current offerings and submission requirements.
Distance and logistics matter in North Dakota. For bacteria samples that need to reach a lab within 24-30 hours, plan accordingly. Some providers may have sample drop-off locations.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in North Dakota, from requirements to finding local services.