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Abandoned Water Wells

An abandoned well is any water well that is no longer used to supply water, or is in such a state of disrepair that the well has the potential for transmitting contaminants into an aquifer or otherwise threatens the public health or safety.

Underground water is constantly moving. It flows through pores in the soil and through cracks and crevices in the rock. As water moves, it picks up pollutants with which it comes in contact.

Abandoned wells are a hazard to the water we all drink, even for those who use municipal water.

If a well is left unsealed, the natural underground aquifer can become polluted. If the shaft of the well is left open or the well casing cracks and deteriorates, pollutants such as sewage, pesticides, fertilizers, organic or other hazardous materials can seep into underground water making it harmful to drink.

Pollution is difficult to detect, difficult to control and may last for years. The water for everyone in the surrounding area, whether from public or private wells, can become contaminated.

Most states require that abandoned wells be properly sealed within 30 days of connection to a public water supply or notification from the health department. A permit is generally required.

Sealing A Well
Abandoned dug wells and cisterns can be plugged by pushing in the upper few feet of well lining, and filling the well to within two feet of the surface with chlorinated clean fill such as course gravel or rock, varied-sized agricultural lime, or sand.

The remainder of the well should be filled with clay or clay-rich soil. Soil should be mounded slightly at the top and compacted to help offset settling.

If a dug well is quite shallow, it can be pumped out and then destroyed with a bulldozer.

Local regulations may vary.
Before sealing an abandoned well, check your with
your local Health Department or water well contractor.


The average cost of sealing a well varies depending on well construction and location. When the well is sealed, the driller must send an affidavit to the County Health Department stating the work has been completed.

Another means of correction is to place the well back into service. If the municipality you live in allows the continued use of the well it may be possible to continue using it as a supplemental well.