Decommissioning a well, also known as well abandonment, is a critical process that ensures environmental safety and compliance with legal regulations. At American Pump and Drilling, we have been serving the Puget Sound Area since 1977, offering comprehensive water system services—from well drilling to proper decommissioning of abandoned wells.
Well decommissioning, also known as well abandonment, is the process of permanently sealing a well that is no longer in use. This step is essential to protect groundwater quality, prevent safety hazards, and comply with state and local regulations. Over time, unused wells can deteriorate, becoming a direct pathway for contaminants to reach underground aquifers—the same water sources that supply homes and communities.
There are several key reasons why well decommissioning is necessary:
- Preventing Contamination – Abandoned wells can act as a direct route for pollutants such as pesticides, fertilizers, bacteria, and other harmful substances to enter underground water sources. Properly sealing a well eliminates this risk, ensuring that drinking water remains safe for future use.
- Eliminating Physical Hazards – Open or improperly sealed wells pose serious risks, especially to children, pets, and wildlife. A well that is not adequately closed can lead to injuries or fatalities if someone falls in. Additionally, deteriorating well casings and structures can collapse, creating further hazards.
- Avoiding Structural and Drainage Issues – Wells left unattended can cause unexpected flooding, soil erosion, and sinkholes. In areas with heavy rainfall, water can collect in abandoned wells, leading to subsurface instability that can impact buildings, roads, and other structures.
- Legal Compliance – In Washington State, and many other regions, property owners are legally required to decommission any well that is no longer in use. Failing to follow proper decommissioning procedures can result in fines and penalties from local environmental and health agencies.
Proper decommissioning ensures the well no longer poses risks to people, property, or the environment. While specific details may vary depending on location and regulations, the decommissioning process generally follows these steps:
- Engage a Licensed Professional: Before undertaking any actions yourself, consult a certified well-drilling contractor or decommissioning specialist. These professionals understand the regulations and procedure required to seal the well properly and legally.
- Assess the Well: Gather all available well information, including construction records (also known as well logs). Verify compliance with your local government to confirm the regulations related to inactive and abandoned wells.
- Obtain Necessary Permits: In Washington State, you must obtain a permit to decommission the well through the health department or other state entity..
- Perform the Decommissioning: The well is then sealed using appropriate materials and methods to prevent contamination and ensure safety.
- Document the Process: After decommissioning, proper documentation is submitted to relevant authorities to confirm that the well has been safely and legally decommissioned.
Proper well decommissioning is essential for environmental protection and legal compliance. At American Pump and Drilling, we have the expertise and commitment to ensure that your well is decommissioned safely. If you have a well on your property that requires decommissioning, reach out to our professionals to arrange for the service. We’ll do the work to meet Washington State requirements.
The well pump professionals at American Pump and Drilling have you covered. Schedule an appointment with us today.