Horry County's Water Well System and How It Works

What Horry County's Water Well System Does

Horry County Water and Sewer Authority operates the public water system that serves most of Horry County, including Myrtle Beach and Conway. The system draws water from underground aquifers through wells, treats it at regional facilities, and delivers it through pipes to homes and businesses. If you live in the service area and want to know how your water reaches your tap, or you're considering a private well as an alternative, understanding Horry's public system helps you make that decision.

The Authority manages both water supply and wastewater collection. Their wells tap into the Pee Dee aquifer system, which lies beneath the coastal plain. The water is treated to meet state and federal safety standards before distribution. If you're building a new home or business in an unserved area, you may have the option to drill a private well instead—but that's a separate process from connecting to Horry's public system.

Key Takeaways

• Horry County Water and Sewer Authority operates the public water wells and distribution system for most of the county, including Myrtle Beach and Conway.
• The system draws water from the Pee Dee aquifer, treats it at regional facilities, and delivers it through a network of pipes to customers.
• If your property is in the service area, you connect to the public system rather than drilling a private well.
• Private wells are an option only in areas outside the public system's service boundary, and they require a separate drilling and permitting process through the county.
• Water quality and pressure issues should be reported to Horry County Water and Sewer Authority's customer service line.

How to learn about Your Property Is in Horry's Service Area

Before you decide whether to drill a private well or connect to public water, you need to know whether your address falls within Horry County Water and Sewer Authority's service boundary. The Authority maintains a service map that shows which areas receive public water and which do not. You can contact their customer service department directly with your street address, and they will tell you whether service is available to your property.

If your property is outside the service area, you have the option to drill a private well. If it is inside the service area but you do not yet have water service, you can request a connection. The Authority charges a connection fee and a monthly service charge; rates vary depending on your usage and whether you are residential or commercial. Call Horry County Water and Sewer Authority at their main number to discuss service availability and costs for your specific location.

Private Wells as an Alternative to Public Water

If your property is outside Horry County Water and Sewer Authority's service area, drilling a private well is a common option. A private well draws water from the same aquifer system but serves only your property. You are responsible for the drilling, maintenance, testing, and any treatment the water may need. Unlike public water, private well water is not regulated by the Authority—you must ensure it meets safety standards on your own.

Before drilling, you will need a permit from Horry County. The county's Building and Development Services office handles well permits and can tell you the requirements for your location, including depth limits, setback distances from septic systems, and water quality testing. Once the well is drilled, you should have the water tested by a certified lab to check for bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminants. Testing costs vary but is a one-time expense that protects your household's health.

Water Quality and Pressure Issues

If you receive water from Horry County Water and Sewer Authority and notice discolored water, low pressure, or an unusual taste or odor, contact their customer service department. The Authority tracks water quality complaints and can tell you whether the issue is widespread or isolated to your property. Sometimes discoloration is caused by sediment in the pipes after maintenance work; sometimes it signals a problem that needs investigation.

Low water pressure can result from a leak on your property, a problem in the public main, or high demand during peak hours. The Authority can check the pressure at the meter and help you determine whether the issue is on their side or yours. If you have a private well and notice quality problems, contact a water testing lab or a well contractor who can diagnose the cause—it may be a mechanical issue with the pump, contamination, or a change in the aquifer itself.

Understanding Your Water Bill from Horry County

Your monthly bill from Horry County Water and Sewer Authority includes charges for water service, sewer service (if applicable), and sometimes stormwater management. The bill shows your meter reading, the amount of water you used, and the rate applied. Rates are set by the Authority and can change; the bill usually includes a notice if rates have changed. If you believe your bill is incorrect, you can request a meter test or review your usage history with customer service.

If you have a private well, you do not receive a bill from the Authority. Your costs are limited to maintenance, electricity to run the pump, and periodic water testing. Over time, a private well may require repairs such as pump replacement or treatment system upgrades, so budgeting for maintenance is important.

Connecting to Horry's Public Water System

If your property is within the service area but does not yet have water service, you can request a connection. The process begins with a call to Horry County Water and Sewer Authority. They will confirm service availability, explain the connection fee, and discuss the timeline. Connection fees vary depending on the distance from the main line and the complexity of the work.

Once you request service, the Authority will schedule a site visit to determine the best route for the water line. If the main line is far from your property, the cost may be higher. After installation, you will receive a meter and begin paying the monthly service charge. The Authority handles all maintenance of the public line; your responsibility begins at the meter.

Maintenance and Repairs for Public Water Service

Horry County Water and Sewer Authority maintains the public water lines and ensures water quality. If a main line breaks or needs repair, the Authority handles it. However, the pipes and fixtures on your property—from the meter into your home—are your responsibility. If you have a leak inside your home or at the meter, you pay for the repair.

The Authority performs routine maintenance and upgrades to the system. During maintenance work, water may be shut off temporarily in your area. The Authority typically notifies customers in advance through notices or local media. If you experience a water outage that is not announced, contact customer service to report it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my address is in Horry County Water and Sewer Authority's service area?

Call Horry County Water and Sewer Authority's customer service department with your street address. They can tell you immediately whether public water service is available. You can also visit their office in person or check their service map online if available through their website.

What is the difference between public water and a private well?

Public water comes from Horry County Water and Sewer Authority's wells, is treated and tested by the Authority, and is delivered through shared pipes. You pay a monthly bill. A private well serves only your property, is your responsibility to maintain and test, and has no monthly bill—only maintenance costs. Private wells are only an option outside the public service area.

How much does it cost to connect to Horry's public water system?

Connection fees vary depending on your location and the distance from the main water line. Contact Horry County Water and Sewer Authority for a quote specific to your property. Monthly service charges also vary by usage and customer type (residential or commercial).

Can I drill a private well if I am in the public service area?

Generally, no. If your property is within Horry County Water and Sewer Authority's service boundary, you are required to connect to public water rather than drill a private well. Exceptions may apply in rare cases; contact the Authority or Horry County Building and Development Services to discuss your specific situation.

What should I do if my water smells or looks unusual?

Contact Horry County Water and Sewer Authority's customer service line and describe the problem. They can check whether the issue is widespread or limited to your property and may send someone to investigate. If you have a private well, contact a water testing lab or well contractor to diagnose the cause.