How far from a public well is no source of contamination allowed?

The correct distance where no source of contamination is allowed from a public well is 50 feet. This requirement is established to protect the water supply from potential contaminants that could seep into the well. By maintaining a minimum distance of 50 feet, there is a significant reduction in the risk of pollutants, pathogens, and other harmful substances entering the aquifer from surrounding areas.

Public health and safety regulations emphasize this buffer zone to ensure that the drinking water remains safe for consumption. Contaminants can travel through soil and groundwater, so adequate separation helps to mitigate these risks effectively. This distance is recognized based on various studies and best practices in water resource management.

Other distances mentioned in the options, such as 25 feet, 75 feet, or 100 feet, may not be as widely recognized or enforced as the 50-foot standard for protecting public water supplies. This makes the 50-foot requirement a crucial element in safeguarding public health regarding water quality.