Permits & Applications

Instructions

Water well permit applicants should be aware that on March 28, 2022, Governor Newsom issued Drought Executive Order N-7-22, which includes well permitting requirements, specifically for water wells, for local agencies to prepare for and lessen the effects of drought conditions (see Action 9).  In addition, on April 4, 2022, the Department of Water Resources (DWR) issued a Fact Sheet for the new well permitting requirements. Further, on February 13, 2023, Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-3-23, which provides an update on water use and supply conditions in California. 

Please call Kit Soo at 510-668-4455, Well Ordinance Supervisor, for more information regarding how the new water well permitting requirements may impact ACWD’s permit application process.

As required by ACWD Ordinance No. 2010-01, drilling permits are required prior to the start of any subsurface drilling activities for wells, exploratory holes, and other excavations. ACWD also requires a permit for inactive classification for any well or other excavation which will not be used for a period of 12 months, but which the owner intends to use in the future. Please read the permit instructions to ensure submittal of a complete permit application package.

All permitted work requires scheduling for inspection; therefore, all drilling activities must be coordinated with ACWD prior to the start of any field work.

Documents