What's Happening Beneath Our Feet? How West Volusia's Springs Affect Local Homeowners

Living in West Volusia has its perks. Beautiful parks, scenic trails, and some of Florida's most incredible natural springs right in our backyard.

But here's something you might not realize: what happens in your backyard could actually affect those springs!

And if you own a home or are thinking about buying one in DeLand, DeBary, Deltona, or Orange City, there's a pretty interesting connection worth knowing about.

There's a Whole World Beneath Our Feet

Ever visited Blue Spring State Park, DeLeon Springs, or Gemini Springs and wondered where all that beautiful water comes from?  The answer is beneath us!

Much of Central Florida's groundwater comes from the Floridan aquifer, an enormous underground system of water-bearing limestone.  Rainwater gradually filters into the ground, replenishing underground water supplies that feed our natural springs.  Think of it as Florida's underground plumbing system, except Mother Nature installed it and the maintenance manual is a little complicated.

Here's the important part: what goes into the ground can eventually affect our groundwater and springs.

What Do Septic Tanks Have to Do With Our Springs?

More than you might think!  Many West Volusia properties use septic systems instead of municipal sewer connections.  Traditional septic systems treat household wastewater, but they aren't specifically designed to remove all the nitrogen that can contribute to groundwater pollution.

In fact, Volusia County identifies septic systems and residential fertilizers as major sources of nitrogen pollution affecting local springs.

That's one reason Florida has established additional protections for areas surrounding Blue Spring, DeLeon Springs, and Gemini Springs.

As of June 27, 2025, updated septic requirements apply within designated spring-restoration areas. Depending on the property's location, lot size, sewer availability, and system circumstances, new installations or changes to existing systems may require additional treatment or other measures.

Not every property is affected the same way.

If you're purchasing a home with a septic system, it's worth asking:

• How old is the system, and when was it last inspected?

• Is the property within a designated spring-protection area?

• Are any upgrades or sewer connections required or anticipated?

A little research now could help prevent an expensive surprise later.

Your Lawn Might Be Part of the Problem, Too

Love a beautiful green Florida lawn? You're definitely not alone.  But excess fertilizer can wash into waterways or seep into groundwater, contributing nutrients that affect water quality.

Here's a local rule homeowners should know:

Volusia County prohibits applying fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorus from June 1 through September 30. Deltona has its own fertilizer ordinance, so residents should check their applicable local requirements.

The good news? You don't have to give up a beautiful yard.  Florida-Friendly Landscaping encourages choosing plants suited to our climate, watering efficiently, and reducing unnecessary fertilizer use.  Native wildflowers, flowering shrubs, and pollinator-friendly plants can create a gorgeous landscape while helping support the environment.

Less unnecessary maintenance and more butterflies? Sounds like a pretty good deal!

What Does This Mean for Homebuyers?

When shopping for homes in West Volusia, most buyers focus on the obvious things: square footage, kitchens, bathrooms, and location.  But there's more to a property than what you see during a showing.

Understanding the home's water source, septic or sewer connection, drainage, and applicable environmental requirements can be just as important.  This is especially worth investigating when considering older properties, homes with acreage, or properties within designated spring-protection areas.

These details can affect maintenance responsibilities, future expenses, and potential improvements.

Protecting What Makes West Volusia Special

From watching manatees at Blue Spring to exploring the natural beauty surrounding Gemini Springs, our local waterways are a big part of what makes living here special.  And protecting them starts with understanding how our everyday choices connect to the environment around us.

So the next time you're admiring one of our beautiful Florida springs, remember: there's a whole lot happening beneath your feet!

Thinking about buying a home in West Volusia? The Shaver Group can help you navigate the local market, ask important property questions, and find a home that fits your lifestyle.  Sometimes the most important things to know about a home aren't inside it, they're underneath it!