Commission a hydrogeology check and site a well or borehole
Groundwater is invisible, so get local evidence before paying for a drill rig. Siting also decides how well the well can be protected from septic systems and animals.
How
- Collect local well records, geological maps and neighbours' experience. Many geological surveys and drillers hold records of nearby boreholes.
- For uncertain areas, hire a hydrogeologist to suggest drilling locations and likely depth and yield.
- Keep the well uphill of pollution. Groundwater generally follows the slope of the land, so Penn State advises putting contamination sources downhill of the well.
- Keep the 30 m (100 ft) zone around the wellhead free of septic systems, drainfields, animal waste, pesticides, fertiliser, fuel and chemicals, as Penn State recommends.
- Check your local setback code. Example, Nebraska, USA: at least 15 m (50 ft) from a septic tank and 30 m (100 ft) from a soil absorption field. Your jurisdiction may differ, so coordinate with the sanitation module before fixing either location.
- Leave access for a drill rig and for future pump pulling.
Do these first
Sources
- Protect Your Home's Water. US EPA, accessed 2026-11
- Protect Your Wellhead to Safeguard Drinking Water Supplies. Penn State Extension, accessed 2026-11
- Setback Distance From Septic to Drinking Water Well. Extension Foundation (drinking-water.extension.org), accessed 2026-11