The Well Protection Program supports the Edwards Aquifer Authority’s (EAA’s) mission to effectively manage and protect the aquifer by accounting for all wells (operational and non-operational) and ensuring they are properly constructed and maintained. Wells in poor condition pose a significant risk of contamination to the aquifer. Through the program, EAA staff documents and inspects registered wells, looks out for unregistered wells and searches for abandoned wells.
Well Registration & Updates
State law requires all wells that withdraw water from the Edwards Aquifer to be registered with the EAA. Registration helps the EAA protect our shared water supply by identifying all points of withdrawal from the aquifer and allows us to properly address potential contamination risks. Read More
Well Assessment Inspection
The EAA routinely performs inspections of water wells within our jurisdiction that withdraw water from the Edwards Aquifer. Wells that are improperly constructed or maintained, neglected, abandoned or located near contamination sources pose a significant risk to the aquifer. Therefore, periodic inspections are recommended as a preventive measure. If you are an Edwards Aquifer well owner and you would like to schedule an inspection, please click here to request an appointment. Read More
Well Closure Procedures & Construction
Unused and abandoned wells (inactive for six months or more and in deteriorated condition) can channel contaminated water into the aquifer. These wells must be cleared of any equipment or debris and sealed from the bottom up by a licensed well contractor.
The EAA issues permits for all new construction, reconstruction or closure of wells that withdraw groundwater from or pass through the Edwards Aquifer.
Read More
- Drilling Through the Edwards Aquifer Permit - Application (PDF)
- Renewal Application for Edwards Aquifer Well Capping Permit
- Water Well Drilling List (PDF)
- Well Capping Permit – Application (PDF)
- Well Construction Permit - Application (PDF)
- Wells Meeting Scheduling Notice
- Well Plugging Permit - Application (PDF)
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation - website