Plugging Abaondoned Water Wells: A guide for Texas landowners

An abandoned well is typically defined as a well that has not been used for six consecutive months and is not properly capped or maintained. These wells may appear as:

• A pipe or casing (plastic, steel, brick, or concrete) sticking out of the ground
• A hole with no visible bottom
• A large-diameter, hand-dug well with a deteriortated or missing cover

A deteriorated well is one that poses a threat to groundwater due to structural failure, such as a broken casing or open borehole, that allows contaminants to enter the aquifer.

For a full legal definition see Texas Occupations Code §1901.255

• Abandoned and deteriorated wells are a direct pathway for contaminants to enter groundwater, bypassing natural filtration provided by soil. This creates serious risks including:
• Contamination of drinking water for nearby homes and communities, and
• Mixing of chemically distinct aquifers, which can degrade water quality.
• Abandoned wells pose significant public safety hazards as people or animals could be injured if they fall into the well.
• Texas law mandates the proper handling of abandoned or deteriorated wells. Failure to comply can result in fines or other legal repercussions.
• Abandoned wells can be unsightly and detract from property and resale values. An abandoned well not only affects the aesthetic appeal of the property but may raise concerns from potential buyers as to their risk and responsiblity regarding the well.

• Groundwater Conservation Districts (GCDs)
  Some GCDs offer financial assistance for plugging abandoned or deteriorated water wells. Use the Groundwater Conservation District (GCD) Index to see if you fall within the jurisdiction of a GCD and what, if any, cost sharing programs they have.
• USDA NRCS
  The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical and financial assistance to landowners to address resource concerns, including water well decommissioning. To find out more about how to apply contact your local USDA NRCS office.
• Communities Unlimited
  This organization may offer loans for water well and septic system improvements, particularly in rural areas. Visit their website for more information.

Yes, Texas law allows landowners to plug their own wells, provided they follow specific construction and reporting guidelines. You do not need to be licensed to plug a well on your prpoerty. However, you must:

• Follow the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) specifications.
• Submit a Plugging Report to the TDLR.
• Check with your local Groundwater Conservation District (GCD) for any additional regional requirements and to see if they provide any financial assistance for plugging wells.

Before you begin, gather the following:

• Plugging Report Form: While reports must now be submitted online, you can preview the old form (PDF) to see what information is required.
• Original Well Report: If available, this can help you understand the well's construction. Use TWDB's Locating a Water Well Report page for information on how to search for records.
• Well location and depth: You'll need accurate measurements for the plugging report.
• Materials Used: Cement, bentonite, or other approved plugging materials

1. Review Plugging Specifications
   Read the TDLR Well Construction and Plugging Specifications to understand acceptable methods and materials.
2. Prepare the Well
   • Remove any obstructions
   • Measure depth and diameter
   • Determine the water levels
3. Plug the Well
• Use approved materials (e.g., cement or bentonite)
• Fill from bottom to top, ensuring no voids
• Cap the well securely if not fully buried
4. Document the Work
• Take notes and photos if possible
• Record materials used and measurements
5. Submit the Plugging Report
• Register for a TWDB online account: Texas Well Report Submission and Retrieval Registration Guide
• Complete and submit the plugging report online.

  Note: You will need to contact the TWDB Groundwater Data Team to obtain a license number and pin to use for entering the report: groundwaterdata@twdb.texas.gov