City of Fargo

Water sources for both tap and bottled water include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land surfaces or through ground layers, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, and can pick up substances from animal presence or human activities.

To ensure safe tap water, the EPA establishes regulations limiting certain contaminant levels in public water systems. FDA regulations set similar limits for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection. All drinking water, including bottled varieties, can reasonably be expected to contain at least minimal amounts of some contaminants, though their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk.

For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Water Hotline at 800-426-4791. Before distribution, City of Fargo water undergoes rigorous testing at certified laboratories for nearly 100 different contaminants, with only detected substances listed in the Monitoring Results Table.

The North Dakota Department of Health requires monitoring for certain contaminants less than annually as concentrations typically don't vary significantly year to year. Some data, while representative of water quality, may be more than one year old.

Lead and Copper Information: The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for lead and copper is known as the Action Level (AL) - the concentration that triggers treatment requirements. Ninety percent of samples must test below this level. During 2017, no samples from the Fargo system exceeded action levels for lead or copper.

Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in water primarily comes from materials in service lines and home plumbing. While the City of Fargo provides high-quality water, it cannot control materials used in plumbing components.

For drinking and cooking, use cold tap water. After water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using it. If concerned about lead, consider having your water tested. Information about lead in water, testing methods, and exposure reduction is available from the Safe Water Hotline or at www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

1. Where can I obtain copies of documents related to my property?
   Contact the District office at 940-728-5050 for an Open Records Request form. Property information is only released to the homeowner. A $15 fee applies to all Open Records Requests. Please allow 3-5 business days for processing.
2. How can I learn about future development plans for roads and subdivisions in Lantana?
   Maps of planned developments can be viewed at the Lantana Visitor's Center or District Offices.
3. Who maintains the creek or park behind my residence?
   For District-owned properties, residents may call the District Offices at 940-728-5050. For privately owned areas, residents should contact the property owner directly. Creeks and drainage areas must remain in their natural state per adopted watershed protection guidelines.
4. Do I need a permit for fence installation, and what height restrictions apply?
   Permits are required for all fence construction, including replacements. All fences must receive approval from the Lantana Architectural Review Committee (ARC) before permit submission. Minor fence repairs don't require permits.
5. What regulations govern outdoor structures and building materials?
   Structures like patio covers, outdoor kitchens, or pergolas may be constructed if they meet lot setback requirements, receive ARC approval, and proper permits are obtained. Materials must comply with ARC guidelines. Consult the Lantana Design Guidelines for community-specific setbacks and specifications.
6. Is a permit necessary for roof repairs or shingle replacement?
   No permit is required for roof replacement or repairs, but you should contact the ARC for approval of shingle specifications.
7. How do I determine if my project requires inspections?
   District staff can clarify inspection requirements by phone or through the Single Family Permit Guidelines. For specific inspection questions and codes enforced by the District, visit the DCFWSD Inspection Guidelines.
8. Do I need permission for block parties or gatherings in parks?
   Yes, these gatherings are classified as "Special Events" requiring approval. Submit a Block Party Permit application ($50.00 fee) before the event.
9. What's the process for expanding or adding a driveway connection?
   Complete a driveway permit application with an attached plan (8½" x 11") showing existing and proposed driveway width, distance from neighboring properties, etc. Fees are based on the cost of work.
10. Is a permit required to replace a water heater?
    Yes. Submit a Plumbing Permit to Lantana District Offices. Plumbers must be registered.