Water

Department of Health employees from our public environmental health program and epidemiology staff investigate illness outbreaks associated with water consumption and recreational water use.

We routinely partner with other state and local agencies to respond to water borne illness outbreaks at facilities to determine the source of the outbreak and prevent further spread of disease.

If you suspect that you may have become ill from a waterborne source, please complete our online complaint form.

Blue-Green Algae

Florida Department of Environmental Protection routinely monitors blue-green algae blooms and collects samples for analysis. 

Algae are plant-like organisms that sustain marine life. They contribute to the food chain and to the oxygen that keeps water bodies healthy. But sometimes, when conditions are right, such as warm water and increased nutrients, certain algae can quickly grow and overpopulate.

These foam or scum-like masses are called blooms, and can be pushed to the shore by winds, waves, tides, and currents. Some blooms release toxins that make ecosystems, animals, and people sick. Scientists call these harmful algae blooms, known as HABs.

In Florida, HABs can be found along our saltwater, freshwater, and brackish waterbodies. HABs are temporary and usually happen in late summer or early fall. They can last three to five months, sometimes longer, and can affect small and large areas.

Blue-green algal blooms can be reported online or by calling 855-305-3903. Learn more about Florida's water environments at Protecting Florida Together.

Florida Healthy Beaches

Florida Department of Health, Environmental Public Health, 386-274-0694
Get the latest information on beach conditions, download the Beach Navigator app, or read the Florida Department of Health’s beach quality report for your beach location of choice.

Drinking Water

Florida Department of Health, Environmental Public Health, 386-274-0694, vchdengineering@flhealth.gov
The Florida Department of Health oversees all public drinking water systems in Volusia County, assuring they consistently meet the requirements of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Safe Drinking Water Acts.

A public drinking water system is a water system that provides water for human consumption for 25 or more people for more than 60 days a year or has 15 or more service connections.

Irrigation

Florida Department of Health, Environmental Public Health, 386-274-0694, vchdwellirr@flhealth.gov
Saving water outdoors is simple and promotes healthier lawns and landscapes. Over 50% of the water used in Florida is for irrigation purposes and approximately 65% of the water used for irrigation will evaporate before the day is over.

In Volusia County, there are fertilizing restrictions and watering restrictions in place. In both incorporated and unincorporated areas of Volusia County, the Florida Department of Health permits and inspects irrigation systems.

Swimming

Florida Department of Health, Environmental Public Health, 386-274-0694, VolusiaHealthFacilities@flhealth.gov
The Florida Department of Health regulates all public pools, spas and attractions. We provide annual operating permits which are significant in the prevention of disease, sanitary nuisances, and accidents.

Inspections include proper disinfection of the water, checking the chemical balance of the pool water, verifying the filtration equipment is properly maintained and that the safety equipment is maintained and on site.

Wells

Florida Department of Health, Environmental Public Health, 386-274-0546, vchdwellirr@flhealth.gov
Through an interagency agreement with the St. Johns River Water Management District, the Florida Department of Health issues construction permits and performs inspections of all potable and non-potable wells in Volusia County.

Rules are in place to protect the groundwater from contamination and to protect the health of its users.