How far must public water wells be located from sewer pipes with water-tight joints?

The established distance that public water wells must be located from sewer pipes with water-tight joints is crucial for maintaining water quality and protecting public health. The answer indicates that a separation of 50 feet is required. This distance helps ensure that any potential contaminants that could leak from the sewer system do not migrate into the groundwater supplying the well. This requirement is rooted in protecting the well from pollutants and ensuring that the drinking water remains safe for consumption.

Maintaining this separation distance is a standard practice in environmental health and safety regulations, as it minimizes the risk of contamination from various sources, such as wastewater or sewer leaks. The choice of 50 feet is recognized as a balance between safety and practicality, reflecting guidelines provided by health authorities and environmental agencies.

The other distances listed do not meet the standard requirements for protecting public water sources from potential contamination, either being too short to effectively mitigate risks associated with sewage systems. This underscores the importance of adhering to established safety guidelines in public health infrastructure.