Well Management Program

Approximately 70 percent of all Minnesotans rely on groundwater as their primary source of drinking water, and one million Minnesotans rely on private wells. Wells and borings used for drinking water, irrigation, industry, groundwater monitoring, heat pumps, hydraulic elevators, and other purposes must be properly constructed, maintained, and sealed (filled with an impervious material) when removed from service, to protect both public health and our invaluable groundwater resources. The Minnesota Department of Health's Well Management Program protects both public health and groundwater by assuring the proper construction of new wells and borings, and the proper sealing of unused wells and borings.

The Well Management Program:

• Establishes standards for construction and sealing of wells and borings ("Minnesota Well Code").
• Licenses contractors who construct, repair, and seal wells and borings.
• Administers permits and notifications to construct and seal wells and borings.
• Inspects the construction of new wells and borings, and the sealing of old wells and borings.
• Follows up with property owners after property transfer to seal unused wells.
• Maintains records on wells and borings.
• Provides information, training, and technical assistance to contractors, other professionals, and the public.
• Responds to well and well water quality problems caused by groundwater contamination events and natural disasters such as floods.

Continuing Education	Newsletters	County Well Index-Online	Well Owner's Handbook	Well Disclosure/ Property Transfer	Water Quality/Well Testing	Brochures and Publications

Where can I get more information or help?

If you have any questions about wells or well water quality in Minnesota, contact your local Minnesota Department of Health office and ask to talk with a well specialist or contact the Well Management Section Central Office at health.wells@state.mn.us or at 651-201-4600 or 800-383-9808. Deaf and hard-of-hearing: TTY 651-201-5797.