Well Permits in California: Requirements & Process

When Permits Are Required

Always Requires Permit

• Drilling a new well
• Deepening an existing well
• Modifying well construction
• Destroying or abandoning a well
• Converting well use (domestic to agricultural)

Usually No Permit Needed

• Replacing pump
• Routine maintenance
• Water treatment installation
• Pressure tank replacement
• Electrical repairs

Check with County

• Well rehabilitation/cleaning
• Casing repairs
• Adding wellhead protection

Permit Types

New Well Permit

• Required before drilling
• Most involved process
• May require environmental review
• Site inspection often required

Modification Permit

• For deepening or altering existing well
• Typically less complex than new well
• Requires existing well documentation

Destruction Permit

• Required for abandoning wells
• Prevents groundwater contamination
• Specific sealing requirements
• Important for property sales

Application Process

Step 1: Identify Permit Authority

• Usually county environmental health
• Some areas: water district or agency
• Groundwater sustainability agencies (SGMA)

Step 2: Submit Application

• Property information and ownership
• Proposed well location (site plan)
• Intended use (domestic, agricultural, etc.)
• Licensed driller information
• Proposed construction details

Step 3: Review

• Setback requirements checked
• Zoning compliance verified
• Environmental review if applicable
• CEQA compliance (larger projects)

Step 4: Site Inspection

• May be required before approval
• Verifies location meets requirements
• Checks for contamination sources

Step 5: Permit Issuance

• Typically valid 1-2 years
• May include conditions
• Inspection required before use

Step 6: Final Inspection

• After drilling completion
• Well log submitted
• Water quality test may be required

Timeline

• Simple permits: 1-4 weeks
• Complex/CEQA review: 2-6 months
• Plan ahead for delays

Costs

Permit Fees (Vary by County)

Additional Fees

• Inspection fees: $100-$300
• Environmental review: varies
• Expedited processing: additional %
• Water testing: $100-$500

San Diego County

Permit Authority

San Diego County Department of Environmental Health (DEH)

Land & Water Quality Division

Requirements

• Minimum setbacks from septic, property lines
• Licensed C-57 driller required
• Site inspection before and after
• Water quality testing for domestic wells

Typical Fees (2026)

• New well permit: $700-$1,200
• Well destruction: $400-$600
• Modification: $500-$800

Contact

DEH Land and Water Quality: (858) 565-5182

Riverside County

Permit Authority

Riverside County Environmental Health

Requirements

• Similar to San Diego
• Additional groundwater agency requirements in some areas
• Eastern Municipal Water District areas have specific rules

Typical Fees

• New well: $600-$1,000
• Destruction: $300-$500

Tips for Smooth Process

Use a Licensed Driller

• C-57 license required in California
• Most handle permits as part of service
• Know local requirements and officials

Plan Ahead

• Start permit process early
• Don't wait until you need water urgently
• Account for delays

Know Your Property

• Survey showing property lines
• Locations of septic, buildings, wells
• Easements that may affect location

Keep Records

• Well log copy
• Permit documents
• Water test results
• Valuable for resale

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to drill a well in California?

Yes. All new wells, modifications, and destructions require permits from your county environmental health department or water agency.

How much does a well permit cost?

Fees vary by county. San Diego: $700-$1,500 for new wells. Other counties: $200-$2,000+. Drillers typically include permit handling in their quotes.

How long does it take to get a permit?

Simple permits: 1-4 weeks. Complex cases with environmental review: 2-6 months. Start early.

Do I need a permit to replace my well pump?

Generally no. Routine maintenance and pump replacement don't require permits. Confirm with your county if unsure.

What happens if I drill without a permit?

Fines, required destruction of unpermitted well, legal issues. The well may also be unsafe or improperly constructed. Always get permits.