Short answer: there is no state-level site permit for a private water well in Texas, but the person drilling it generally needs a state license, a well report must be filed, and a local groundwater conservation district (GCD) may have its own registration or permit rules.
The state level: licensing, not site permits
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) says that "no site permits are required at the state level to drill a water well; however, permits or well registrations may be required by local ordinances or groundwater conservation districts." TDLR licenses water well drillers and pump installers; public water supply wells are regulated separately by TCEQ.
Under Texas Occupations Code §1901.151, a person may not act or offer to act as a driller without a TDLR license. The statute's definition of "water well driller" excludes a person drilling on their own property for their own use, and a helper working under a licensed driller's direct supervision.
The well report
According to the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), licensed drillers, and landowners who drill their own wells, must submit a State of Texas Water Well Report when they drill a new well. Ask your contractor for a copy for your records (see how to find a well report).
Groundwater conservation districts
TWDB says private well owners do not need to register a well with the state, but property inside a GCD may have to follow that district's rules. Use the TAGD GCD Index map to check your exact address. For context, a 2022 TCEQ report to the Legislature notes that the southeastern Midland County part of the Reagan, Upton and Midland priority groundwater management area has no GCD. Don't assume that applies to your parcel; check the map.
City rules
If your property is inside city limits, the city may have its own rules on wells. Call the city before you plan a new well.
Old wells
TDLR notes that the landowner is responsible for plugging an abandoned or deteriorated water well. See well plugging.
General information only, not legal or engineering advice. Rules change, so confirm with the agency linked below or a licensed professional before you start work.
Sources
- TDLR: Water Well Drillers & Pump Installers At A Glance
- Texas Occupations Code ch. 1901 (Water Well Drillers)
- TWDB: General Groundwater and Private Water Well FAQ
- Texas Alliance of Groundwater Districts: GCD Index (map)
- TCEQ: PGMA and GCD Report to the 88th Legislature (SFR-53/22)
- TDLR license search
Last reviewed: October 2026.
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