05/29/2026
We’re proud to share that Carolina Well Drilling owner Lynn Oliver helped lead efforts through the South Carolina Ground Water Association (SCGWA) to support the passing of House Bill 5111, recently signed into law by Governor Henry McMaster.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster signed House Bill 5111 into law on May 15, 2026, marking the successful culmination of a two-year legislative effort led by the South Carolina Ground Water Association (SCGWA). The legislation represents a significant milestone for private well owners and the groundwater industry throughout the state.
H. 5111 strengthens and protects the rights of South Carolina property owners to utilize private water wells while maintaining important public health safeguards and supporting sustainable water infrastructure. The final version of the legislation reflects extensive collaboration among SCGWA and key stakeholders to create a balanced approach that preserves individual property rights while reinforcing protections for public health and water system integrity.
Among the bill’s key provisions is language preventing political subdivisions from unreasonably restricting property owners from drilling or using private wells on agricultural or single-family residential properties of at least one-half acre. The law also reinforces existing backflow prevention standards by requiring property owners who maintain both a private well and a public water system connection to install appropriate backflow prevention devices to prevent cross-contamination.
In addition, the legislation aligns local well registry requirements with existing South Carolina Department of Environmental Services permitting and reporting processes. The bill also clarifies that the use of a private well does not exempt property owners from applicable base fees when public water service is available.
The new law includes safeguards for consumers in areas served by noncompliant public water systems. If a public water system is found to be out of compliance with state or federal standards, political subdivisions may not prohibit property owners from accessing safe water through private wells.
Further, H. 5111 establishes accountability measures for public water service providers by prohibiting mandatory system connections unless service can actually be provided. Political subdivisions must also confirm water service availability in writing within 30 days. The legislation does not permit property owners to disconnect from an existing public water system.
Passage of H. 5111 represents a major achievement for SCGWA and its industry partners, reinforcing the important role private wells play in providing safe, reliable water access for South Carolina residents while maintaining strong public health protections.
