WHERE ON YOUR PROPERTY SHOULD A WATER WELL BE DRILLED?

Jan 16, 2025

2 min read

Groundwater is essential in many parts of Alberta. Hence, a well's location is more important than just convenience. Property owners should be careful while drilling a water well to ensure that they get safe water. Read our blog to learn all about properly drilled wells.

Distance from Contaminants

Drilling, installation and maintenance of a borehole, bore pump for a house, private water supply.

Potential sources of contamination are among the first essentials to analyze while drilling a water well at your property. Your well should be placed away from septic tanks, sewage systems, agricultural runoffs, and places where you store chemicals. To prevent contamination of the well, a distance of at least 15 meters from septic tanks and 30 meters from chemical storage sites should be maintained.

Topography and Accessibility

The topography of your property is a vital factor for your water well. Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding and areas with steep slopes, as they are difficult to access. Choose an elevated and flat area to allow easy access for maintenance and repairs, minimizing the risk of surface water contamination.

Geological and Hydrological Conditions

Understand your property's geological and hydrological conditions. Consult with a hydrologist or a professional well-driller to gain insights into the local water table, soil, and rock composition. This is a crucial step, as different soil and rock types significantly affect drilling costs and well yield.

Traditional Knowledge

Consider the distance of your well from existing wells and industrial facilities. Learn about the locations of underground pipes to avoid damage during drilling. Do not place your well near overhead power lines to prevent the risk of contact or electrocution.

Environmental Impact

Opt for a location for your water well that minimizes environmental impact. Avoid areas that could affect natural habitats or disrupt local water flow to maintain ecological balance and promote sustainable water use.

Local Rules and Regulations

The local rules and regulations for drilling a water well in Alberta include the following:

Location: Wells must be at least 3.25 meters from any building and cannot be located in pits. The top of the well casing must extend at least 20 centimetres above the ground.
Accessibility: Wells must be accessible for cleaning, repairing, monitoring, and inspecting.
Setbacks: Wells must be set back from potential contamination sources.
Well cap: Wells must have a cap or cover to protect them from surface water and external elements.
Sloping: The area around the well must be sloped to prevent water stagnation.
Contractor: Only a licensed water well contractor with Approval to Drill Water Wells can drill a well. The contractor must be a certified journeyman water well driller.
Yield test: This test involves removing water from the well for at least two hours, recording the water level, and then recording the water level for two hours afterward. It helps the contractor analyze a safe and sustainable pumping rate for the well.

Choose Elk Point Drilling Corp for Water Well Drilling in Alberta

We are a family-owned business that has been providing safe drilling services in Alberta since 1950. Our team offers various drilling services, including water well maintenance and servicing. Contact us today for more information.