In the case of a
property transaction, Dakota County requires that water samples be collected by an independent third party (County personnel, agent of a certified lab or County designated person).
Persons interested in
routine testing of their water may:
- Pick up a water test kit at the County Extension Office
- Pick up a water test kit at the Dakota County Water Resources Department
- Call Dakota County (952-891-7000) to request that a water test kit be mailed
- Send an e-mail to request that a water test kit be mailed. Order a private water supply test kit.
Dakota County residents interested in testing their water for perfluorochemicals (PFCs) may:
- Contact the Water Resources Department to schedule the water sampling. The water sample must be collected by County personnel.
What is the cost?
- Coliform bacteria and nitrate - $32.00
- Coliform bacteria test - $18.00
- Nitrate tests - $18.00
- Pesticide screening test - $50.00*
- Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) - $387.00 (includes sample collection)
A check or money order should be made payable to the Dakota County Property Taxation & Records Department. You may request that the County both collect and analyze a sample of your water for $112.00 by calling 952-891-7000.
*For pesticide screening tests, Dakota County requires prepayment and checks only, payable to Heidelberg College. A specific sample kit and procedure is required for the pesticide screening test. Mail payment to Dakota County Water Resources Department, 14955 Galaxie Avenue, Apple Valley, MN 55124.
Additional tests (fluoride, lead, etc.) are available upon request for an additional charge.
What do I do with my water sample?
Carefully follow the water sample collection instructions inside the test kit.
Water samples may be taken to any one of three drop-off locations. The samples should be delivered on or before the times listed for each location. Samples cannot be accepted if received after this time.
The following schedule is in effect each week except on holidays:
Wednesday - Western Service Center, Apple Valley
Water Resources Department (third floor)
14955 Galaxie Ave
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Delivery Deadline: Wednesdays, 11:00 am
Tuesday - Dakota County Extension, Farmington 4100 220th Street West
Farmington, MN 55024
Delivery Deadline: Tuesdays, 10:00 am
Tuesday – Northern Service Center, West St. Paul Public Health Department
1 Mendota Rd W Ste 410
West St. Paul, MN 55118
Delivery Deadline: Tuesdays, 10:00 am