Well Permits
Well permits can only be applied for by a Master Well Driller. The well driller must submit a completed Well Permit Application along with a plat showing the proposed well, the proposed or existing house, any wells, septic systems, septic reserve areas, and other sources of contamination (gas tanks, septic systems, etc.) within 100 feet of the property line. After our office receives the Well Permit Application, the permit is typically processed within two weeks.
After the well is completed, the well driller must submit a report called the Well Completion Report to our office and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). The Well Completion Report details the construction of the well including the total well depth, the yield, the drilling log, etc. After receiving the Well Completion Report, our office reviews the well construction for compliance with the Well Construction Regulations (COMAR 26.04.04). Upon approval, the Well Completion Report is entered into our database and stored in the property file.
After completion of a water well and water distribution system (or plumbing system), the well must be chlorinated and tested for bacteria, nitrates, turbidity, and sand. Two consecutive satisfactory bacteria samples must be done at least seven days apart. Additional samples may be necessary depending on the location of the well and susceptibility of the well to water quality contaminants. If the well is completed according to the Well Construction Regulations and all the required samples are satisfactory, our office will issue a Certificate of Potability certifying the well as potable.
For more information regarding well permits, call 410-877-2300.
