The permitting of wells is a way LPSNRD protects groundwater and existing groundwater users. A proposed well's size and location determine the procedure a property owner needs to follow before approval of the well is considered. The process needed to obtain a well permit depends on how much water the well can pump and the location of the proposed well. The District's groundwater reservoirs map (first link below) will be useful in this process.
Anyone wanting to construct a new or replacement well in one of the District's groundwater reservoirs that pumps more than 50 gallons per minute (GPM) must obtain a well permit from the District before they begin construction.
Anyone wanting to construct a new or replacement well in the Remaining Area of the District that pumps more than 20 GPM must obtain a permit before starting construction. There are a few exceptions to these rules. Wells drilled to pump 50 GPM or less that are to be used for human consumption (domestic wells), fire control, sanitation, or to water livestock do not require a permit from the District.
A non-refundable $50 filing fee ($250 late permit fee) is required for each permit application. Once a correctly completed application is received, District staff conduct a site visit to identify the GPS location of the proposed well the applicant has previously staked out. Once preliminary approval of the permit is given, the applicant has one year to construct the well and complete the required water quality tests and/or conduct the required aquifer test necessary to receive final approval by the District.
All newly permitted wells are required to have a water meter installed before using the well. You must annually report water usage to the District. To put it simply: If you need a well permit, you also need a water meter installed before using the well.
Certification of irrigated acres may also be required before irrigating.
Note: You will not need all of the documents below in order to obtain a well permit. If you are just beginning the permit process, begin at the top of the list, then download other documents as you determine your needs. Contact LPSNRD with any questions you have during the application process.
