A large number of residences in Pitkin County receive water from private wells. The CO Division of Water Resources, through the State Engineer, issues water well permits. Every new well in the state that diverts ground water must have a permit. Applications and instructions for obtaining a well permit are available online at:
FormsWell drillers and pump installers in Colorado are required to be licensed. Information on licensed contractors is made available by the state online at:
State Board of Examiners. Unlike the inspection programs that exist for buildings, there is currently no inspection or certification program in place for well construction; however, the state has promulgated
Water Well Construction Rules.Unlike public water supplies, the responsibility for assuring a safe supply of water from private wells rests solely with the property owner. In Colorado, there are no regulatory standards governing the water quality of private wells and Pitkin County does not test its residents' well water. There are several private water laboratories in the state which perform water testing. Information on state-certified laboratories in Colorado can be found at:
www.cdphe.state.co.us/lr/certification/sdwlistOther Useful Links
Information on low interest loans for well construction and repair.
Information from the CO Dept. of Public Health and Environment on private wells. This document contains information on potential ground water pollutants and identifies basic steps that property owners should take to maintain the safety of their drinking water.
Information from the U.S. EPA on private wells. This website provides basic information on drinking water wells and answers Frequently Asked Questions about water quality testing.
The CO Dept. of Natural Resources Division of Water Resources Guide to Well Permits, Water Rights, and Water Administration. This document describes the types of well permits available from the State Engineer and outlines some basic questions any prospective property buyer should ask about a well.
The National Groundwater Association information site for owners of private wells. This website contains information on well maintenance and water testing.