What is an abandoned water well?

The Groundwater Quality Control Act, Part 127, 1978 PA 368 defines an abandoned water well as a well which:

  • Has its use permanently discontinued
  • Is in such disrepair that its continued use for obtaining groundwater is impractical
  • Has been left uncompleted
  • Is a threat to groundwater resources
  • Is or may be a health or safety hazard

The act defines a temporarily abandoned well as a well which:

  • Is not in use, but is intended by the owner to be used as a source of groundwater

To be classified as temporarily abandoned, a well casing must:

  • Be securely sealed with a threaded, welded, or solvent welded cap to prevent access into the well and eliminate openings into the well
  • Comply with isolation distance and construction requirements

Show All Answers

1. What is an abandoned water well?
2. Who is responsible for plugging abandoned water wells?
3. Who can plug a well?
4. How do I locate abandoned wells on your property?
5. What if there are no records available for your well?