Proper well construction, operation and plugging help protect groundwater quality, conserve groundwater resources and reduce safety hazards. North Plains GCD works with landowners, licensed water-well drillers and pump installers to ensure that work performed within the District complies with applicable District and state requirements.
Contact North Plains GCD before drilling, modifying or plugging a well to determine which permits, forms and procedures apply.
Before Drilling a Well
All wells within the District must be properly registered or permitted before drilling begins. Review the District’s permit requirements, applicable fees and required forms before starting work.
Abandoned and Deteriorated Wells
Unused, abandoned or deteriorated wells can create a direct pathway for contaminants to enter the aquifer and may also pose a physical hazard to people and animals. Landowners are responsible for bringing these wells into compliance or having them properly plugged.
Well plugging within North Plains GCD must follow applicable state requirements and the procedures established in the district’s TDLR-approved plugging variance.
A plugging report must be submitted within 30 days after a well is plugged. TDLR also instructs property owners to provide a copy to their local groundwater conservation district.
View TDLR Water Well Drillers and Pump Installers Forms and Publications
Private-Well Disinfection
Private wells may require disinfection following construction, repair, flooding or suspected contamination. Review the current TDLR private-well disinfection guidance before beginning the process.
Drilling and Well Operations FAQs
Yes. If you intend to drill on your neighbor’s property, they will have to sign or file an Agent Authorization Form with the NPGCD allowing you to sign for them.
That depends. You can only sign for your brother if an Agent Authorization Form is on file with the NPGCD allowing you to do so. Otherwise, the answer is no. Your brother will be required to sign for the document as well.
No, unfortunately well and test hole permit fees are nonrefundable.
No. Drilling without an approved permit is a Class One violation of NPGCD rules which can result in fines up to $10,000 per day per violation.
