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Information Center (800) 917-0043 or help@oria.wa.gov
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Regulatory Handbook -> Water Resource Permits -> Well Construction and Operator's License |
Well Construction and Operator's License
What is the Purpose of this License?
A Well Operator's License is required for all construction and decommissioning activities for these categories of wells:- Water wells.
- Monitoring wells.
- Geotech soil borings.
- Environmental investigation wells.
- Geothermal heat pump borings.
- Dewatering systems.
- When drilling a water well on your own property for your own consumptive use no more than once every two years. The well must meet all well construction regulation standards and be constructed by the actual property owner. There is no exemption for decommissioning wells. A property owner must hire a licensed Washington state well driller.
- When drilling is conducted by a licensed engineer, architect, or land surveyor registered in Washington State, provided state construction and decommissioning regulations are met and the engineer, architect or land surveyor is on site during construction and decommissioning activities.
What Activities Require this License?
A drilling license is required for all drilling activities for all types of wells including:- Water wells.
- Monitoring wells.
- Geotech soil borings.
- Environmental investigations wells.
- Geothermal heat pump borings.
- Dewatering systems.
How Much Will this License Cost?
New applicants $75 for each type of license.To renew a license $75 for each type of license.
Where Can I Get the Application for this License?
The application which is called 'Well Construction Operator's License Application' is online and can be accessed at https://fortress.wa.gov/ecy/publications/SummaryPages/ECY050121A.html.Do I Need to Include Anything with my Application?
To apply for a new well operator license, applicants must pass a written exam and possibly an on-site field exam.Is the Decision on my License Dependent on Anything Besides the Information in my Application?
License dependencies vary. Please contact Tara Roberts in Water Resources at 360-407-6650 for more information.How Long Will it Take to Review my Application?
License applications are reviewed and a written response to the applicant is made within two weeks of receipt.Where do I Submit my Application?
Applications must be mailed to:Cashiering Unit
Department of Ecology
PO Box 46711
Olympia WA 98504-7611
How Long is my License Valid?
Licenses must be renewed every 2 years prior to the renewal date. If a well operator license is not renewed by the renewal date, the license is expired and you may not construct or decommission wells. Trainee licenses are not renewable, but may receive a one-time extension of up to 24 months.What is the Appeal Process for the License?
An applicant or any interested party may appeal a decision by Ecology to issue or deny a permit to the Pollution Control Hearings Board.Links:
- A Guide to Washington's Well Operator's License Program
- FAQ: Renewing a Washington State Well Operator License
- License Renewal Application
- Notice of Intent Forms
- Resource Protection Well Report
- Water Well Report
- Well Construction for Drillers Main Page
- Well Construction Operator Training License
- Well Operator License Written Exam Study Guide
Statewide Contact:
Water Resources Program
Headquarters
300 Desmond Drive
PO Box 47600
Olympia, WA 98504-7600
Fax: (360) 407-7162
Telephone: (360) 407-6872
Website: https://ecology.wa.gov/About-us/Get-to-know-us/Our-Programs/Water-Resources
* Permit information last updated 6/15/2022
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