Underground Injection Control
UIC Well Information
- Classes of Injection Wells
- What is a Class V well?
- Motor Vehicle Disposal Wells
- Large Capacity Cesspool
- Geothermal Wells
- Funeral Home Waste Disposal
- Septic Systems (that serve 20 or more people)
- Storm water discharge wells
- Geologic Sequestration
- State UIC Programs
Small Business Advocacy Documents
Other Pertinent Guidance
Underground Injection is the practice of placing fluids underground, in porous formations of rocks, through wells or other similar conveyance systems (e.g. septic systems, cesspools, etc.). Man-made or produced fluids (liquids, gases or slurries) can move into the pores of rocks by the use of pumps or by gravity. The fluids may be liquid hazardous wastes such as water, wastewater or water mixed with chemicals. Usage of UIC wells historically was a common practice for disposal of fluids during oil production, salt mining, and smaller operations such as automotive repair (service and body work) and dry cleaning.
Class II and III Wells
EPA oversees permitting and testing of several facilities within the region that utilize Class II and III wells. For more information about these types of wells see Class of Injection Wells.
Class V Wells
EPA conducts inspections for Class V activities in sensitive source water areas. EPA also oversees remediation, permitting and closure of Class V wells. Typical Class V wells are septic systems, large capacity cesspools and automotive disposal wells.
Commonly Asked Questions
Did you receive a letter or Order from EPA requiring Permitting or Closure of your Class V well?
Or are you voluntarily Closing your Class V well?
Did you receive a letter from EPA requiring an Inventory of Injection wells?
Where can I find a sample Inventory Information form? [PDF 142 KB, 3 pp]