Well Permit Guide San Diego County: Requirements & Process
Quick Answer: San Diego County requires permits for drilling, modifying, or abandoning wells. Apply through County DEH (Environmental Health). Permit cost: $200-$600. Timeline: 2-4 weeks typical. Requirements: property ownership, site plan, setback compliance, and licensed contractor. We can help navigate the process.
Types of Well Permits
New Well Permit
- Required for drilling new water well
- Most extensive application
- Requires site plan and setback verification
- Environmental review may be required
Repair/Modification Permit
- For pump replacement, deepening, or rehabilitation
- Simpler application process
- Lower fees
- Faster approval
Abandonment Permit
- Required for properly sealing unused wells
- Documents proper closure
- Protects from future liability
Inactive Well Registration
- For wells not currently in use but not abandoned
- Must maintain in safe condition
- Annual registration may be required
Permit Requirements
Documentation Needed
- ☐ Completed permit application
- ☐ Property ownership verification
- ☐ Site plan showing well location
- ☐ Setback distances from septic, property lines
- ☐ Licensed contractor information (C-57)
- ☐ Proof of water rights (if applicable)
- ☐ Environmental clearances (if required)
Site Plan Requirements
- Property boundaries
- Proposed well location
- Distance to septic tank and leach field
- Distance to property lines
- Existing structures
- Any existing wells
Contractor Requirements
- Valid C-57 Water Well Contractor license
- Current insurance
- Workers compensation (if applicable)
Application Process
Step 1: Pre-Application
- Verify site can meet setback requirements
- Check for special district requirements
- Contact County DEH with questions
- Gather required documentation
Step 2: Submit Application
- Complete application form
- Include all required documents
- Pay application fee
- Submit to County DEH
Step 3: Review
- County reviews for completeness
- Verifies setback compliance
- Checks for environmental concerns
- May request additional information
Step 4: Approval
- Permit issued with conditions
- Valid for specified period (usually 1 year)
- Must begin work within timeframe
Step 5: Construction & Completion
- Notify county before starting
- Follow permit conditions
- Submit completion report
- Water test may be required
Contact Information
San Diego County DEH - Land and Water Quality Division
- Phone: (858) 565-5100
- Address: 5500 Overland Ave, San Diego, CA 92123
- Website: sdcounty.ca.gov/deh
Costs & Timeline
Permit Fees (Approximate)
| Permit Type | Fee Range |
|---|---|
| New domestic well | $400-$600 |
| Repair/modification | $200-$400 |
| Abandonment | $150-$300 |
| Environmental review (if required) | Additional fees |
Note: Fees subject to change. Contact County DEH for current fee schedule.
Timeline
| Situation | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|
| Simple repair permit | 1-2 weeks |
| Standard new well permit | 2-4 weeks |
| Complex project/environmental review | 2-3+ months |
Factors Affecting Timeline
- Completeness of application
- Setback compliance issues
- Environmental concerns
- Water district requirements
- County workload
Setback Requirements
Minimum Distances
| From | Minimum Distance |
|---|---|
| Septic tank | 50 feet |
| Leach field/disposal area | 100 feet |
| Property line | 5 feet (varies) |
| Buildings | 5 feet |
| Sewer lines | 50 feet |
Note: These are general guidelines. Specific requirements may vary. Verify with county.
Variance Process
If setbacks cannot be met:
- Variance may be possible in some cases
- Additional review required
- May require special construction methods
- Higher fees and longer timeline
Tips for Smooth Approval
Before Applying
- Verify setback compliance before submitting
- Have licensed contractor review site
- Check for any special district requirements
- Call county with questions first
Application Tips
- Complete all fields on application
- Include clear, accurate site plan
- Show all measurements to scale
- Provide contractor license number
- Submit all required documents together
Working with Contractor
- Many contractors handle permit process
- Experience with local requirements helps
- Ask about permit timeline
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a well permit cost in San Diego County?
$200-$600 depending on permit type. New domestic well permits are typically $400-$600.
How long does it take to get a well permit?
2-4 weeks for standard permits. Complex projects may take 2-3 months.
Do I need a permit to replace my well pump?
Generally yes, a repair permit is required for pump replacement in San Diego County.
Can I drill a well anywhere on my property?
No—you must meet setback requirements from septic systems, property lines, etc.
What if my property can't meet setback requirements?
You may apply for a variance, but approval isn't guaranteed. Consult with county before purchasing property.
Do you handle the permit process?
Yes! We handle permit applications for well drilling and repairs. We know San Diego County requirements well.
Need Help with Well Permits?
See our well drilling services - we handle permits.