Decommissioning Abandoned Wells
An abandoned well is one that is no longer in use. All abandoned wells are health and safety concerns. They not only lead to contaminated groundwater, but pose extreme risk to children, adults and animals. Improperly secured wells as small as eight inches in diameter have been known to trap people, causing severe injury and even death.
By state law, certain procedures must be followed to decommission (secure) an abandoned well. If you own a well that is no longer in use, you are the one responsible for decommissioning the well. In addition, state law says that any person who violates the regulations in decommissioning or constructing a well can be held accountable.
Here are the steps you must follow:
- Contact a licensed well driller. Referrals can be obtained by calling the Washington State Ground Water Association at (360) 757-1551.
- Submit a Notice of Intent to Decommission a Well form to the Department of Ecology.
- Complete a health department Well Decommissioning Application
- Obtain Approval from the health department
Please be sure to follow the Well Decommissioning Guidelines ensuring that any abandoned well on your property is secure and you, your family, and your groundwater are protected.
For more information call (253) 798-2885.
