SERVICE
Apply to build or destroy a well
Get a permit to build or remove a well or soil boring.
What to know
Cost
- Pay an application fee
- Pay a deposit
- You may need to pay for additional inspection time
Keep in mind
- The application process is the same for building or destructing a well
- You need approval and an inspection before you start any work
- A licensed well contractor needs to do all well or soil boring work
What to do
1. Fill out an application
Download and fill out an application for your type of well. Monitoring wells and soil borings help track groundwater conditions. Production wells pull groundwater to use.
2. Collect your fees
You will need to pay:
- An application fee (payable by check or money order to the SF Department of Public Health)
- A deposit fee for the first hour of inspection time for your type of well
You can pay all your fees with 1 check.
If the inspection lasts more than an hour, we will send you a bill. You must pay the bill within 30 days.
3. Include information for a production well
If you are building a production well, include:
- Your proposed construction specifications
- A detailed map or plot plan
- A site safety plan
4. Submit your items
Make sure to submit your documents at least 30 days before you start drilling. Email your items to Eurich.Santiago@sfdph.org.
You can also mail or deliver your documents in-person to:
Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103
Get directions
If submitting by mail, include "ATTN: Well Program" in the address.
5. Schedule a well inspection
Schedule your inspections in advance if possible. You must wait until your inspection before you start work on the well.
- Email Eurich.Santiago@sfdph.org
- Call 415-252-3800
Supporting information
Permit duration
We will review your application and give you the permit.
- If you are building a well or soil boring, your permit will last 6 months.
- If you are destroying a well or soil boring, your permit will last 90 days.
Get help
- Email Eurich.Santiago@sfdph.org
- Call 415-252-3800
What to know
Cost
- Pay an application fee
- Pay a deposit
- You may need to pay for additional inspection time
Keep in mind
- The application process is the same for building or destructing a well
- You need approval and an inspection before you start any work
- A licensed well contractor needs to do all well or soil boring work
What to do
1. Fill out an application
Download and fill out an application for your type of well. Monitoring wells and soil borings help track groundwater conditions. Production wells pull groundwater to use.
2. Collect your fees
You will need to pay:
- An application fee (payable by check or money order to the SF Department of Public Health)
- A deposit fee for the first hour of inspection time for your type of well
You can pay all your fees with 1 check.
If the inspection lasts more than an hour, we will send you a bill. You must pay the bill within 30 days.
3. Include information for a production well
If you are building a production well, include:
- Your proposed construction specifications
- A detailed map or plot plan
- A site safety plan
4. Submit your items
Make sure to submit your documents at least 30 days before you start drilling. Email your items to Eurich.Santiago@sfdph.org.
You can also mail or deliver your documents in-person to:
Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103
Get directions
If submitting by mail, include "ATTN: Well Program" in the address.
5. Schedule a well inspection
Schedule your inspections in advance if possible. You must wait until your inspection before you start work on the well.
- Email Eurich.Santiago@sfdph.org
- Call 415-252-3800
Supporting information
Permit duration
We will review your application and give you the permit.
- If you are building a well or soil boring, your permit will last 6 months.
- If you are destroying a well or soil boring, your permit will last 90 days.
Get help
- Email Eurich.Santiago@sfdph.org
- Call 415-252-3800