Professional Water Well Drilling

Complete well installation services for homes, farms, and businesses across San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.

New Water Well Installation

Whether you're building a new home, need agricultural irrigation, or want independence from municipal water, Southern California Well Service provides complete well drilling solutions. With over 20 years of experience drilling wells throughout Southern California, we handle every aspect of your project from initial site assessment to final system testing.

Our Well Drilling Process

1

Site Assessment

We evaluate your property, review geological data, and identify the optimal drilling location. We consider depth to water table, rock formations, and proximity to potential contamination sources.

2

Permits & Paperwork

We handle all required county permits and paperwork. San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties each have different requirements — we know them all and ensure full compliance.

3

Drilling

Using modern rotary drilling equipment, we drill to the required depth. Well depths in Southern California typically range from 200-800 feet depending on location and water table depth.

4

Casing & Sealing

We install steel or PVC casing to protect the wellbore and seal the annular space to prevent surface contamination from reaching your water supply.

5

Pump System Installation

We size and install the appropriate submersible pump, pressure tank, and control systems for your water needs — whether residential, agricultural, or commercial.

6

Testing & Handoff

We conduct a pump test to verify flow rate and water quality, then walk you through your new system operation and maintenance requirements.

Well Types We Drill

Residential Wells

Single-family homes and estates. Typical yield 5-20 GPM. Perfect for homes on rural properties where municipal water isn't available.

Agricultural Wells

Irrigation for farms, orchards, and vineyards. Higher capacity systems designed for the demands of agricultural operations.

Commercial Wells

Golf courses, nurseries, and businesses. Custom-designed systems to meet your specific water demands and usage patterns.

Replacement Wells

When your old well runs dry or produces insufficient water, we drill new wells with modern technology for better results.

Well Drilling Costs in San Diego County

The cost of drilling a water well in San Diego County typically ranges from $15,000 to $50,000+, depending on depth, geological conditions, and system requirements. While this is a significant investment, a private well provides decades of water independence and can pay for itself over time compared to rising municipal water rates.

Factors That Affect Well Drilling Cost

Well Depth

The single biggest cost factor. Deeper wells require more drilling time, casing, and a more powerful pump. Coastal areas may hit water at 200-400 feet, while inland areas often need 400-800+ feet.

Geological Conditions

Hard rock formations like granite increase drilling time and equipment wear. Sandy soils drill faster but may require more casing. San Diego's varied geology means costs can differ significantly by location.

Site Access

Drilling rigs are large vehicles. Difficult access — steep driveways, narrow roads, or remote locations — may require additional equipment or preparation work.

Permits & Requirements

San Diego County permit fees typically run $500-$1,500. Some areas have additional requirements for environmental review or setback distances that can affect the project.

Typical Cost Breakdown

Here's what typically makes up the total cost of a new well installation:

Component Typical Cost Range
Drilling (per foot) $25 – $65/ft (varies by geology)
Casing & Sealing $1,500 – $4,000
Submersible Pump $1,500 – $4,000
Pressure Tank $800 – $2,500
Electrical & Controls $1,000 – $3,000
Permits & Inspections $500 – $1,500
Total (typical residential) $15,000 – $50,000+

Free Estimates — No Obligation

Every property is different. We provide free site assessments and detailed written estimates so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins. No pressure, no surprises.

Call for Free Estimate

For a deeper dive into pricing factors and what to expect for your specific situation, read our detailed guide: Complete Guide to Well Drilling Costs in San Diego County.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to drill a well in San Diego?

Well drilling costs in San Diego County typically range from $15,000-$50,000+ depending on depth, rock formations, and equipment needed. Factors include drilling depth (200-800 feet), geological conditions, site access, and pump system requirements. We provide free site assessments and detailed written estimates before any work begins.

How deep do you have to drill for water in Southern California?

Depth varies significantly by location. Coastal areas might find water at 200-400 feet, while inland valleys and mountainous areas often require 400-800 feet. We research local well logs and geological surveys before drilling to maximize your chances of hitting water at the optimal depth.

How long does it take to drill a well?

Actual drilling typically takes 2-5 days depending on depth and geological conditions. The complete project including permits, site preparation, drilling, casing, and pump installation usually takes 2-4 weeks from start to finish.

Do you guarantee you'll find water?

No driller can guarantee water, but with proper site assessment and local knowledge, success rates are high. We review geological surveys, nearby well records, and property characteristics to maximize your chances. In most areas of San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties, we have excellent success rates.

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

Yes, California requires permits for well drilling. San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties each have different requirements. Permit fees typically run $500-$1,500. We handle all permitting and paperwork as part of our service, ensuring full compliance with local regulations.

Is drilling a well worth it compared to city water?

A private well can pay for itself in 7-15 years compared to municipal water rates, and then provide essentially free water for decades. Beyond cost savings, wells offer independence from water restrictions, no monthly bills, and often better-tasting water. The investment makes sense for most rural and semi-rural properties.

Get a Free Drilling Estimate

Call us for a site visit and detailed quote. No obligation, no pressure.

(760) 440-8520 Request Quote Online

Why Choose Us?

  • 20+ years drilling experience
  • Licensed & fully insured
  • We handle all permits
  • Transparent, upfront pricing
  • Complete system installation

Related Services