# Title 33.1 — Department of Environmental Quality

## Article 33.1-18 — Water Well Contractors

## Chapter 33.1-18-01 — Water Well Construction and Water Well Pump Installation

### § 33.1-18-01-01. Responsibility.

It is the responsibility of any person, partnership, association, or corporation engaged in the
business of construction of water wells, the installation of water well pumps, pitless units, or other
appurtenances, or both, or drilling of geothermal systems, to comply within the meaning of this chapter
pursuant to North Dakota Century Code chapters 23.1-01, 43-35, and 61-28.1.
A person, partnership, association, or corporation may not engage in the business of water well
construction, the installation of water well pumps, pitless units, or other appurtenances, or both, or
drilling of geothermal systems, unless a certified water well contractor, water well pump and pitless unit
installer, or geothermal system driller is in charge.
The certified water well contractor, water well pump and pitless installer, or geothermal system
driller in charge shall provide inspection and supervision of all water well construction activities,
installation of water well pumps, pitless units, or other appurtenances, or both, or drilling of geothermal
systems.
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1
Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 45
### § 33.1-18-01-02. Definitions.

For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply:
1. "Abandoned well" means a well whose use has been permanently discontinued.
2. "Annular space" means the opening between a well hole excavation and the well casing or
curb, or between a casing pipe and a liner pipe.
3. "Appurtenances" means valves, meters, taps, gauges, or other devices required for adequate
control or measurement of the well output.
4. "Aquifer" means a water-bearing formation that transmits water in sufficient quantities to
supply a well.

5. "Casing" shall mean the pipe installed in the drill hole to give unobstructed access to the
water-bearing formation.
6. "Constructing" a well includes boring, digging, drilling, or excavation in installing casings, well
screens, and other appurtenances.
7. "Contamination" means alteration of the physical, chemical, or biological quality of the water
so that it is harmful or potentially injurious to the health of the users or for the intended use of
the water.
8. "Department" means the department of environmental quality.
9. "Disinfection" means the killing of infectious agents outside the body by chemical or physical
means.
10. "Drawdown" means the extent of lowering the water surface in a well and of the water table
adjacent to the well, resulting from the discharge of water from the well by pumping or natural
flow.
11. "Drilling" means making any opening in the earth's surface by drilling, boring, or otherwise,
and includes inserting any object into any part of the earth's surface for the purpose of
obtaining an underground water supply except drainage tiles or similar devices designed
primarily to improve land by removing excess water.
12. "Established ground surface" means the permanent elevation of the surface of the ground at
the site of the well.
13. "Filter pack" means a clean sand or sand and gravel material of selected grain size and
gradation which is installed in the annular space between a well hole excavation and the
outside of the well screen for the purpose of preventing formation material from entering the
screen.
14. "Geothermal system driller" means any person who is certified to conduct the business of
drilling, boring, or excavating for the purpose of constructing or substantially modifying a
geothermal energy extraction facility.
15. "Ground water source" means all water obtained from dug, drilled, bored, or driven well,
infiltration lines, and springs.
16. "Grout" or "grouting material" means any stable impervious bonding material which is capable
of providing a watertight seal between the casing and the formation throughout the depth
required to protect against objectionable matter and which is reasonably free of shrinkage.
17. "Liner pipe" means a pipe installed inside a completed and cased well for the purpose of
sealing off undesirable water or for repairing ruptured or punctured casing or screens.
18. "Pitless adapter" means a commercially manufactured device designed for attachment to a
well casing and is so constructed as to prevent the entrance of contaminants into the well or
potable water supply, conduct water from the well below the frostline to prevent freezing, and
provide full access to the water system components within the well.
19. "Pitless unit" means a factory-assembled device with cap which extends the upper end of a
well casing to above grade and is so constructed as to prevent the entrance of contaminants
into the well or potable water supply, conduct water from the well below the frostline to prevent
freezing, and provide full access to the well and the water system components within the well.

20. "Potable water" means water free from impurities in amounts sufficient to cause disease or
harmful physiological effects, with the bacteriological and chemical quality conforming to
applicable standards.
21. "Pressure tank" or "hydropneumatic tank" means a closed water storage container
constructed to operate under a designed pressure rating to modulate the water system
pressure within a selected range.
22. "Private water supply" means one that is not for public use.
23. "Public water supply" means a water supply connected to at least fifteen service connections
or regularly serves an average of twenty-five persons daily, sixty days out of the year.
24. "Pumps" and "pumping equipment" means any equipment or materials utilized or intended for
use in withdrawing or obtaining ground water for any use, including, without limitation, seals
and tanks, together with fittings and controls.
25. "Repair" means any action which results in a breaking or opening of the well seal or
replacement of a pump.
26. "Shall" means mandatory compliance with all aspects of the rules and regulations for water
well construction and water well pump installation.
27. "Should" means provisions which are not mandatory but which are recommended or desirable
procedures or methods. Deviation from the rules and regulations for water well construction
and water well pump installation is subject to individual consideration.
28. "Static water level" means the elevation of the surface of the water in a well when no water is
being discharged therefrom.
29. "Water well contractor" means any person who is certified to conduct the business of well
drilling under the provisions of North Dakota Century Code chapter 43-35.
30. "Water well pump and pitless unit installer" means any person who is certified to conduct the
business of installing water well pumps and pitless units under the provisions of North Dakota
Century Code chapter 43-35.
31. "Well development" means the general process to achieve sand-free water at the highest
possible well capacity.
32. "Well seal" means an approved arrangement or device used to cap a well or to establish and
maintain a junction between the casing or curbing of a well and the piping or equipment
installed therein, the purpose or function of which is to prevent pollutants from entering the
well at the upper terminal.
33. "Well vent" means an outlet at the upper terminal of the well casing to allow equalization of air
pressure in the well and escape of toxic or inflammable gases.
34. "Wells" means any artificial opening or artificially altered natural opening however made by
which ground water is sought or through which ground water flows under natural pressure or
is artificially withdrawn; provided, that this definition does not include a natural spring, stock
ponds, or holes drilled for the purpose of exploration for production of oil, gas, gravel, or other
minerals.
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1
Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, §§ 45, 46

### § 33.1-18-01-03. Plans and specifications.

No public water well shall be constructed or modified, or water well pump, pitless unit, or other
appurtenances be installed without prior approval of plans and specifications. Plans and specifications
shall be submitted to the department for review prior to construction. Note chapter 33.1-03-08. The
plans and specifications shall include:
1. Proposed well location.
2. Location and depths of existing wells, location of septic tanks, absorption fields, sewers,
barnyards, feedlots, landfills, and high water marks of lakes or streams with a radius of five
hundred feet [152.4 meters].
3. Elevation of highest known flood levels, upper terminal of well casing, floor of structure, and
outside grade.
4. A schematic drawing of the well construction showing diameter and depth of drill holes, casing
and liner diameters and depths, grouting depths, and other details as necessary to completely
describe the proposed well.
5. Certification that the state engineer, state water commission, has issued a conditional water
permit for the beneficial use of water from the well to be constructed, if such a permit is
required pursuant to North Dakota Century Code section 61-04-02.
Routine maintenance and repair does not require submission of plans and specifications.
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1
Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 45
### § 33.1-18-01-04. Location of wells.

1. Relation to sources of contamination. Determination of minimum lateral distances of a well
from potential sources of contamination, involves evaluation of the character and location of
the sources of contamination, types of geologic formations, depth to the aquifer, effect on
ground water movement by well pumping, and possibilities of flooding of the site by surface
waters.
Based on experience, accepted minimum lateral distances for some common sources of
pollution with respect to a well have been established. The lack of specific distances for other
possible sources of contamination such as refuse disposal sites, excavations, waste treatment
facilities, buried oil and gasoline storage tanks, improperly constructed wells and cisterns, etc.,
does not minimize their potential hazards.

The site should be on high ground and be:
a. At least one hundred feet [30.48 meters] (fifty feet [15.24 meters] for private wells) from
privy pits, cesspools, septic tanks, absorption fields, barnyards, feedlots, high water
marks of lakes, streams, sloughs, ponds, etc., when well is constructed in unconsolidated
soils with filtering properties.
b. At least thirty feet [9.14 meters] from sewerlines.
c. At least ten feet [3.05 meters] from basements or pits.
d. At least twenty feet [6.1 meters] from overhead powerlines and other hazardous devices.
Note section 24-02-01-03.
Greater distances are always preferable and often necessary, depending upon soil conditions.
When wells are constructed in consolidated formations, care must be taken in locating the
wells as pollutants have traveled great distances in such formations.
2. Relation to buildings. When a well must be located adjacent to a building, it shall be located
so that the centerline of the well extended vertically will clear any projection from the building
by not less than two feet [60.96 centimeters].
Every well shall be reasonably accessible for proper repair, cleaning, testing, inspection, or
other attention as may be necessary.
The well casing shall not extend through nor shall the top of the well casing or any other well
opening terminate in the basement of any building or in a pit, room, or other space which is
below ground surface.
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1

Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 45
### § 33.1-18-01-05. Protection of ground water sources.

1. Minimum protective depths of wells. All wells shall be watertight to exclude contamination.
Wells shall be designed to seal off formations that are or may be contaminated or undesirable.
Unless approved otherwise by the department, the annular space between a well hole
excavation and the outside of the well casing shall be filled with neat cement grout, high-solids
bentonite clay grout, bentonite chips, or bentonite tablets at least one and one-half inches
[3.81 centimeters] in thickness from a depth of not less than thirty feet [9.1 meters] to the
ground surface or the upper end of the well casing if a pitless unit or adapter is installed. Wells
with a depth of thirty feet [9.1 meters] or less shall be grouted from within two feet [60.96
centimeters] of the top of the well screen to the ground surface or the upper end of the well
casing if a pitless unit or adapter is installed. Greater depths are preferable and may be
required for specific installations as determined by review of the plans and specifications.
The annular space of wells constructed in unconsolidated formations without overlying
confining beds and static water levels less than thirty feet [9.1 meters] below the ground
surface shall be filled with neat cement grout, high-solids bentonite clay grout, bentonite chips,
or bentonite tablets at least one and one-half inches [3.81 centimeters] in thickness from the
static water level or a depth of not less than ten feet [3.0 meters], whichever is greater, to the
ground surface or the upper end of the well casing if a pitless unit or adapter is installed.
Driven well casing may, when conditions warrant, be installed without grouting.
2. Required protection for various sources.
a. Radial collector wells. The location of all caisson construction joints and porthole
assemblies shall be indicated. The caisson wall shall be substantially reinforced. Radial
collectors shall be in areas and at depths approved by the department. Provisions shall
be made to assure minimum vertical rise. The top of the caisson shall be covered with a
watertight floor. All openings in the floor shall be curbed and protected from entrance of
foreign material. Pump discharge piping shall not be placed through caisson walls.
b. Dug or bored wells. Dug or bored wells greater than two feet [60.96 centimeters] in
diameter shall be developed only where geological conditions preclude the development
of a satisfactory drilled well.
Every dug or bored well shall have a continuous watertight casing. The section of casing
in the producing zone serving as the well screen shall readily admit water and be
structurally sound to withstand external pressures.
The open space between the excavation and the installed casing shall be sealed with
neat cement grout, high-solids bentonite clay grout, bentonite chips, or bentonite tablets.
The watertight casing shall extend at least twelve inches [30.48 centimeters] above
finished ground surface. A cover slab at least four inches [10.16 centimeters] thick,
adequately reinforced and having a diameter sufficient to overlap the lining by two inches
[5.08 centimeters] shall be provided. The slab shall be constructed without joints.
The top of the slab shall be sloped to drain to all sides and a watertight joint made where
the slab rests on the well casing using cement mortar or a mastic compound.
A manhole, if installed, shall be provided with a curb cast in the slab and extending at
least four to six inches [10.16 to 15.24 centimeters] above the slab. The manhole shall

have a watertight overlapping cover extending down around the curb by at least two
inches [5.08 centimeters].
Adequate sized pipe sleeve or sleeves shall be cast in place in the slab to accommodate
the type of pump or pump piping proposed for the well.
c. Infiltration wells. Infiltration wells may be considered where geological conditions
preclude possibility of developing an acceptable drilled well. The area around the well
shall be under the control of the water purveyor for a distance acceptable to or required
by the department. The flow in the lines shall be by gravity to a collecting well. The water
shall be continuously chlorinated to assure bacterial purity.
d. Flowing wells. The construction of flowing wells shall be in compliance with North Dakota
Century Code chapter 61-20.
The construction of flowing wells shall be such that the flow from them can be controlled.
Well casing shall be installed, and the annular space grouted with neat cement to form a
tight seal. The neat cement grout shall extend upward from within twenty feet
[6.1 meters] of the top of the aquifer to the ground surface or the upper end of the well
casing if a pitless unit or adapter is installed.
Well casings shall be joined in a watertight manner. Flow control should consist of valved
pipe connections, watertight pump connections, or receiving reservoirs set at an
elevation corresponding to the artesian head.
e. Existing wells. The department shall be consulted for requirements concerning the
reconstruction of existing wells.
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1
Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, §§ 45, 46
### § 33.1-18-01-06. General well construction requirements.

1. Construction water. Water used in the drilling process shall be obtained from a source which
will not result in contamination of the well. Chlorination of the water with an initial dosage of
not less than fifty milligrams per liter (one gallon [3.78 liters] of laundry bleach or 0.6 pounds
[1.32 kilograms] of calcium hypochlorite per one thousand gallons [3.78 kiloliters] of drilling
water) is recommended.
Waters from surface sources must be chlorinated with a minimum dosage of one hundred
milligrams per liter (two gallons [7.56 liters] of laundry bleach or 1.2 pounds [2.64 kilograms] of
calcium hypochlorite per one thousand gallons [3.78 kiloliters] of drilling water).
2. Ferrous well casing.
a. General. Casing and liner pipe of wrought iron or steel through ten inches
[25.4 centimeters] in diameter shall be prime pipe meeting current American society for
testing and materials schedule 40, or equivalent specifications. Larger diameter pipes
shall have a minimum wall thickness of three hundred seventy-five thousandths of an
inch [0.952 centimeter].
All casing shall have additional thickness and weight if standard thickness is not
considered sufficient to assure reasonable life expectancy of the well or be capable of
withstanding forces to which they are subjected.

b. Drive shoe. Pipe that is to be driven shall be equipped with a drive shoe or other device
approved by the department.
c. Joints. Casing and liner pipe joints shall be properly welded or threaded.
3. Nonferrous well casing.
a. General. Pipe other than wrought iron or steel must be adaptable to the stresses to which
they will be subjected during and after installation and to the corrosiveness of the water.
b. Thermoplastic well casing. Thermoplastic well casing shall conform with American
society for testing and materials specification F480-81 or latest revision as follows:
(1) Minimum standard dimension ratio shall be twenty-one for casings less than sixteen
inches [40.64 centimeters] in diameter. Minimum standard dimension ratio shall be
twenty-six for casings sixteen inches [40.64 centimeters] in diameter or larger.
Casings with a lower standard dimension ratio (additional thickness) must be used
when the minimum standard dimension ratio is not capable of withstanding the
stresses encountered during and after installation.
(2) Minimum pipe stiffness shall be two hundred twenty-four pounds/foot [inch . inch]
(kiloneutron/[meter . meter]) when tested according to section 5.4.1 of American
society for testing and materials specification F480.
(3) All casing five inches [12.7 centimeters] and larger shall be tested for impact
resistance and meet or exceed IC-1 impact classification according to section 6.5
and table 6 of American society for testing and materials specification F480.
c. Other materials. Other well casing materials that may be proposed shall carry the seal of
the national sanitation foundation and be approved in writing by the department prior to
installation.
4. Packers. Packers shall be of a material that will not impart taste, odors, toxic substances, or
bacterial contamination to the water in the well.
5. Screens. Screens must be constructed of corrosion-resistant material and sufficiently strong
to withstand stresses encountered during and after installation. Screen slot openings, screen
length, and screen diameter should be sized and designed to provide sufficient open area
consistent with strength requirements to transmit sand-free water at a capacity at least equal
to one and one-half times the capacity of water anticipated. Screen slot size should be based
on sieve analysis of formation samples.
Screens should be installed so that exposure above pumping level will not occur. A screen
must be attached or connected to the casing by a threaded, solvent-welded, or welded joint or
by threaded fasteners or a nontoxic packer. Solvent-welded joints should not impart taste,
odors, toxic substances, or bacterial contamination to the water in the well.
6. Filter pack. Material used as a filter pack shall be sand or sand and gravel that is free of
foreign material, properly sized, washed, and then disinfected prior to or during placement.
Provisions for prevention of leakage of grout into the filter pack or screen shall be provided.
7. Well development. Every well shall be developed prior to yield and drawdown testing. Well
development includes procedures to apply physical energy to the screen and aquifer
formation adjacent to the well. After development, the well should produce sand-free water at
a capacity at least equal to one and one-half times the capacity of water anticipated.

8. Yield and drawdown test. Every well should be tested for yield and drawdown. The test
method to be followed should be clearly outlined in the specifications. The test pump should
have a maximum capacity at least equal to one and one-half times the capacity of water
anticipated. The test pump should be able to operate continuously until the rate of decline of
the pumping water level has stabilized. Test data to be recorded should include:
a. Static water level.
b. Pumping rate.
c. Drawdown during test.
d. Recovery water levels.
e. Depth of pump setting.
Duration of the test shall be determined with due consideration given to pumping of sand,
clarity of water pumped, and the obtaining of a representative sample of water for chemical
analysis.
9. Chemical conditioning. When chemical treatment of a public well is proposed, the method of
conditioning shall be included in the specifications. The equipment, chemicals, and inhibitors
to be used, the method of testing for chemical residuals, and the disposal of waste shall be
indicated.
10. Grouting requirements.
a. Neat cement grout. The mixture should consist of one sack of cement (ninety-four
pounds [42.64 kilograms]) to not more than six gallons [22.71 liters] of clean water.
Bentonite additives up to five pounds [2.27 kilograms] per sack of cement to increase
fluidity may be used. Pozzuolana additives up to thirty-three pounds [14.97 kilograms]
per sack of cement may be used.
b. Heat of hydration. Care must be used when grouting thermoplastic well casing with neat
cement grout. Heat caused by hydration during curing of the cement may cause
weakening of the well casing. High peak temperatures may be minimized by adding sand
or bentonite clay to the neat cement grout mixture to increase the curing time. The
amount of sand or bentonite clay added to the neat cement grout may not exceed five
pounds [2.27 kilograms] per sack of cement.
c. High-solids bentonite clay grout. The mixture must consist of not less than three pounds
[1.36 kilograms] of bentonite clay per gallon [3.79 liters] of clean water.
High-solids bentonite clay grout, bentonite chips, or bentonite tablets must be
commercially prepared specifically for the purpose of sealing water wells. The use of
bentonite drilling fluids as a grouting material is not permitted.
d. Grouting guides. Casing that is to be grouted in the drill hole or annular opening shall be
provided with sufficient guides welded to the casing to permit the unobstructed flow and
uniform thickness of grout.
e. Grout application. Grout material must be positively and accurately placed to fill all voids.
All grouting should be performed by adding the mixture, from the bottom of the annular
space upward, in one continuous operation, until the annular space is filled. Sufficient
annular opening shall be provided to permit a minimum of one and one-half inches
[3.81 centimeters] of grout around the casing, including couplings, if used.

Bentonite chips or tablets may be added from the top of the annular space to a maximum
depth of thirty feet [9.1 meters] provided the grout material is positively and accurately
placed to fill all voids and hydrated after placement.
11. Plumbness and alignment. Every well shall be tested for plumbness and alignment upon
completion of construction. The casing shall be sufficiently plumb so as not to interfere with
the installation and operation of the pump. (See recommended procedures in the appendix to
this chapter.)
12. Well construction data. The water well contractor shall provide the North Dakota board of
water well contractors with an accurate record of well construction data. Drill cuttings should
be obtained at five-foot [1.52-meter] intervals, and at all pronounced changes in formation.
Well construction data shall include an accurate record of the drill hole diameters and depths,
assembled order of size and length of casings and liners, grouting depths, formations
penetrated, water levels, location of blast shots, and pumping tests. Well construction report
forms are available from the North Dakota board of water well contractors.
13. Upper terminal of well. The casing or pitless unit for all ground water sources shall project
not less than twelve inches [30.48 centimeters] above the final ground elevation, the well
cover slab, or pumphouse floor.
Sites subject to flooding shall have the top of the protective casing, pitless unit, the cover of
every dug well, and the floor of the pumphouse at least two feet [60.96 centimeters] above the
highest-known flood elevation and be surrounded by earthfill.
14. Capping. The well must be protected during construction. A properly fitted cap designed for
the type of well casing installed shall be used to protect the well from surface contamination
until pumping equipment is installed.
15. Bacteriological and chemical quality of water. Every new, modified, or reconditioned
ground water source shall be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after the completion of
construction and again after the permanent pump has been installed. The certified water well
contractor or pump and pitless unit installer in charge during well construction and pump
installation shall advise the well owner that one or more water samples from the source should
be submitted to an approved laboratory for bacteriological analysis and that the well should
not be placed into service until satisfactory bacteriological results are obtained.
Wells intended for use by a public water system shall be sampled for bacteriological analysis
and the following chemicals and not placed into service until the results are deemed by the
department to comply with the primary drinking water standards established under the Safe
Drinking Water Act: antimony, arsenic, barium, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, copper,
cyanide, fluoride, lead, mercury, nickel, combined nitrate/nitrite, selenium, thallium,
manganese, and sulfate. When it is established that the ground water is subject to continuous
or intermittent contamination, or for public water systems that the ground water is under the
direct influence of surface water, provisions for continuous disinfection will be required.
16. Chemical quality of water. Every new, modified, or reconditioned ground water source
should be examined for its chemical characteristics by tests of a representative sample in a
department or other approved laboratory. The samples should be collected and tested as soon
as practical.
17. Water level measurement. Provisions should be made for periodic measurement of the static
and pumping water levels in the completed well. The installation shall be made in such
manner as to prevent the entrances of foreign material.

18. Water supply wells, geothermal ground water and return wells, and special purpose
water wells. All wells designed as water supply wells, geothermal ground water or return
wells, or special purpose water wells shall be constructed in accordance with this chapter.
Each well shall be protected at its upper terminal to preclude the entrance of foreign materials.
19. Abandoned wells. Any abandoned water wells, including test wells, uncompleted wells, and
completed wells shall be sealed by restoring, as far as possible, the controlling geological
conditions which existed before the wells were drilled.
Sealing of wells results in:
a. Elimination of physical hazards.
b. Prevention of contamination of ground water.
c. Conserving yield and hydrostatic head of aquifers.
d. Prevention of intermingling of desirable and undesirable waters.
Wherever feasible, the wells should be filled with concrete grout or other approved materials.
(Note: recommended grouting procedures are in the appendix to this chapter.)
At no time shall any sewage or other contaminated or toxic materials be discharged into an
abandoned well.
20. Organic polymers. The use of biodegradable organic polymers as a drilling fluid additive has
resulted in persistent microbiological contamination of ground water supplies. Organic
polymers shall be used only when approved in writing by the department for a specific well
construction project.
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1
Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, §§ 45, 46
### § 33.1-18-01-07. Pump installation for water wells.

1. Pumphouse appurtenances. The installation of necessary appurtenances for public wells
shall be as illustrated in pump installation details contained in the diagrams attached to this
chapter.
a. Floor drain. The pumproom floor shall be watertight and shall slope away from the pump
base. The pumproom floor shall be provided with a floor drain discharging to a sump at
least twenty-five feet [7.62 meters] from the well.
b. Vents. Provisions shall be made for venting the well casing to the atmosphere. There
shall be no holes in the pump base which might allow wastewater or other material to
enter the well. A breather tube shall be installed of sufficient size to permit air to enter
and leave the well freely with the changing of water elevation caused by starting and
stopping the pump. The breather tube shall terminate in a full one-hundred-eighty-degree
bend at least eighteen inches [45.72 centimeters] above the floor, securely screened with
sixteen mesh wire screen. If the breather tube or a depth gauge line passes through the
base of the pump or through the seal connection into the well, the hole about the tube
shall be sealed.
c. Water level measurement. An access plug for a measuring tape or an air line and
drawdown gauge for determining location of the water level shall be installed during the
installation of the pump on all public wells. Installation of permanent water level

measuring equipment shall be made using corrosion-resistant materials firmly attached,
in a vertical position, to the drop pipe or pump column in such a manner as to prevent
entrance of foreign materials. The air line shall extend from the top of the well to several
feet [meters] below the lowest anticipated water level. The length of the air line shall be
accurately measured and the length recorded.
2. Cutting of well casing. No casing shall be cut off or cut into below ground level except to
install a pitless unit or adapter.
3. Pitless unit and adapter.
a. Pitless unit. Pitless units designed to replace a section of well casing must meet the
standards of the national sanitation foundation or the water systems council and must:
(1) Be factory fabricated from point of connection with the well casing to the unit cap or
cover. The materials used must be durable, at least equal in quality to the well
casing, to prevent excessive corrosion.
(2) Form an unbroken extension of the well casing from the point of discharge to a point
above ground level as specified for upper well terminals.
(3) Have an inside diameter equal to or greater than the inside diameter of the well
casing to facilitate work and repair on the well, pump, or well screen. Any deviation
from this paragraph must be approved in writing by the department.
(4) Conduct water from a well casing without exposing the well to contamination
through openings in the casing.
(5) Have access to the casing for disinfection of the well.
(6) Be capped with a cover having a downward flange which will overlap the edge of
the unit. The cover must be securely fastened to the unit and must be sufficiently
snug to the unit to be verminproof or watertight if required.
The cover must provide for watertight entrance of electrical cables, vent piping, and
an air line or a tap for wetted tape measurements of depth to water level of a well.
(7) Be installed by threaded, welded, or compression flange gasketed connection to the
cutoff casing. The threaded, welded, or compression flange gasketed connection to
the cutoff casing must be watertight. If the connection to the casing is to be a field
weld, the factory-assembled unit must be designed specifically for field welding.
(8) Have all field connections between the pitless unit and the water service pipe
threaded, flanged, or mechanical joint.
b. Pitless adapter. Commercially manufactured clamp-on or weld-on pitless adapters for
attachment to the exterior of a well casing may be installed when approved by the
department. Pitless adapters must be installed according to manufacturer's specifications
and meet the standards of the national sanitation foundation. A list of approved pitless
adapters is available from the department.
(1) Pitless adapters must be constructed and installed so as to prevent the
entrance of contaminants into the well or water supply through openings in the
well casing.

(2) The pitless adapter must provide adequate clearance within the well to permit
insertion and withdrawal of the pump and system components through the
upper terminal of the well casing.
(3) The pitless adapter must be connected to the well casing with
clamps-and-gasket or by welding and must be watertight. To assure a
watertight connection between the pitless adapter and the well casing, care
must be used in cutting the hole in the well casing, preferably with a
hole-cutting saw. All burrs from the cutting process must be removed. Both the
outside and the inside surfaces of well casing surrounding the hole must be
smooth.
(4) A pitless cap or cover must enclose the upper terminal of the well casing. The
cap, entrance of electrical cables, vent piping, air lines, etc., must be as
specified for pitless units.
(5) All field connections between the pitless adapter and the water service pipe
must be threaded, flanged, or mechanical joint.
(6) All other aspects of pitless adapter requirements must be as specified for
pitless units.
c. Freezing. Water service piping must be installed below recorded frost penetration. A
minimum depth of seven feet [2.28 meters] below grade is recommended to prevent
freezing.
4. Over-the-well pumps. Power-driven pumps located over a well shall be installed on a
concrete base of sufficient height to permit the outside casing to extend one inch
[2.54 centimeters] above the concrete base. On all public water wells, the annular opening
between the drill hole and casing shall be filled with cement grout before the pump base and
pumphouse floor are constructed. If the well is of the gravel wall type, the outer casing shall
extend at least twelve inches [30.48 centimeters] above the pumproom floor with suitable
provisions made for adding gravel. The inner casing shall extend one inch [2.54 centimeters]
above the pump base. Note diagrams no. 1 and no. 2, pump installation details, in the
diagrams attached to this chapter.
A sanitary well seal shall be installed at the top of the well casing to prevent the entrance of
contaminated water or objectionable material.
5. Pump column. A separate pump column, suction or discharge pipe shall be installed inside
the well casing in all instances, whether the well is to be pumped by suction, airlift, or deep
well pump.
6. Submersible pumps. The discharge line installed inside of the well casing must meet the
standards for ferrous or nonferrous well casing in subsections 2 and 3 of section
### § 33.1-18-01-06. The discharge line shall leave the well at the top of the casing.

The opening
between the discharge line and casing or pipe sleeve shall be sealed watertight with an
expanding rubber seal or equivalent device. When an underground discharge is desired, a
properly installed pitless unit or, when approved by the department, a pitless adapter shall be
used.
The electrical cable shall be firmly attached to the pump riser at intervals of twenty feet
[6.10 meters] or less.
When a check valve is not part of the pump, a check valve shall be installed on the pump
discharge line within the well.

A check valve on the pump discharge line is not required on nonpressurized wells for livestock
use that would be damaged by freezing, when an airgap or other cross-connection control
protection is provided.
7. Offset pumps. Pumps offset from public wells shall be located in an aboveground
pumphouse or other building. All portions of suction lines buried below the ground surface
between the well and the pump shall be enclosed in a protective pipe of standard thickness
and be sealed watertight at both ends.
This requirement shall be considered satisfied if the suction line lies within a pressure
discharge line.
Offset pumps for private wells may be located in a basement provided that the pumps and all
suction pipes are elevated at least twelve inches [30.48 centimeters] above the floor.
8. Hand pumps. Hand pumps shall be of the force type equipped with a packing gland around
the pump rod, a delivery spout which is closed and downward directed, and a one-piece
bell-type base which is part of the pump stand or is attached to the pump column in a
watertight manner.
The bell base of the pump shall be bolted with a gasket to a flange which is securely attached
to the casing or pipe sleeve.
9. Pump controls.
a. Public water wells. Pump controls for public water wells must be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's recommendations as shown on approved plans and
specifications.
b. Private water wells. Pump controls for private water wells should be installed in
accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and must include:
(1) A pressure-activated pump switch.
(2) A thermal overload switch.
(3) A flow control orifice or a low water level cutoff switch on all pumps having an output
in excess of the well capacity.
(4) A pressure relief valve on positive displacement pumps.
(5) The installation of necessary appurtenances for private water wells should be as
illustrated in diagram no. 4 - pitless unit and appurtenances for private wells.
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1
Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, §§ 45, 46
### § 33.1-18-01-08. Storage tanks.

1. Public water systems. Storage equipment for public water systems must be as shown on
approved plans and specifications.
2. Private water systems. Storage equipment must be as follows:
a. All tanks must be certified under water system council standards for size and pressure.

b. Hydropneumatic tanks must have a working pressure rating in excess of the maximum
system pressure but not less than seventy-five pounds per square inch [34.02 kilograms
per 6.45 square centimeters].
c. All tanks must be coated or made of materials resistant to corrosion.
d. All tanks must be constructed of materials or coatings which are nontoxic.
e. All tanks must be provided with a means of draining.
f. Atmospheric storage tanks must be provided with a cover to prevent the entrance of
unauthorized persons, dirt, or vermin. The cover must be vented with a return bend vent
pipe having an area not less than the area of the downfeed riser pipe and the vent must
be screened with corrosion-resistant screen having not less than fourteen and not more
than twenty openings per linear inch [2.54 centimeters].
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1
Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, §§ 45, 46
### § 33.1-18-01-09. Materials for water distribution.

1. Water service pipe.
a. Public water systems. Water service pipe from the well to the point of entrance to a
pumphouse or building must be as shown on approved plans and specifications.
b. Private water systems. Water service pipe from the well to point of entrance to a
pumphouse or building must be made of copper, galvanized steel, or approved plastic.
Approved plastic (polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, or polybutylene) must have a
minimum pressure rating of one hundred sixty pounds per square inch at seventy-three
degrees Fahrenheit [11.25 kilograms per square centimeter at 22.8 degrees Celsius].
Copper tube, when used underground, may not be less than type L. All threaded ferrous
pipe and fittings must be galvanized or cement-lined and, when used underground in
corrosive soil or filled ground, must be coal tar enamel-coated and threaded joints must
be coated and wrapped when installed.
All piping must comply with applicable standards for such piping. Polyvinyl chloride,
polyethylene, and polybutylene pipe shall carry the seal of the national sanitation
foundation.
Permeation through polyethylene and polybutylene pipes by organic contaminants
(including petroleum byproducts) can occur resulting in contamination of water supplies.
Where there is known contamination of soils by organics or a high probability that
contamination of soils by organics may occur, it is recommended that polyethylene and
polybutylene pipe not be used to construct water supply lines.
2. Fittings. The materials of which water supply system pipe fittings are made must be
compatible with the type of piping materials used in the water supply system.
3. Material strength.
a. All materials used for water piping must be suitable for use with the maximum
temperature, pressure, and velocity that may be encountered in the installation, including
temporary increases and surges.

b. When the standards for the piping material used for hot and cold water distribution limit
the working pressure or temperature to values lower than usually encountered, the relief
valve may be set no higher than the limits of the standard.
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1
Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, §§ 45, 46
### § 33.1-18-01-10. Cross-connection control.

All wells discharging to sources of contamination, such as livestock watering tanks, must be
provided with an approved backflow prevention device or an airgap to prevent the backflow or
siphonage of contaminants into the well. The airgap should provide a minimum vertical distance
between the potable water pipe outlet and the water surface of not less than twice the diameter of the
outlet pipe. Greater distances are preferable.
Overflow lines from stock watering tanks or other sources of contamination may not discharge to the
well.
Please consult the North Dakota state plumbing code for details.
History: Effective January 1, 2019.
General Authority: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, § 1
Law Implemented: NDCC 43-35-19, 43-35-19.1; S.L. 2017, ch. 199, §§ 45, 46





A. General.
Immediately after construction or repair, always disinfect with a strong chlorine solution of fifty to
one hundred milligrams per liter. Materials used in construction or repair of a well are contaminated
with dirt and bacteria and the water from a well is considered safe to drink only when laboratory
tests show that no harmful bacteria are present.
B. Procedure.
1. Determine the amount of water in the well by referring to the table.
2. Add the amount of chlorine compound necessary to give a dosage of fifty milligrams per liter
as indicated on the table, into the opening between the casing and the drop pipe. On new well
construction, the chlorine should be added just before installation of the pumping equipment.
a. Chlorine tablets may be dropped in the top of the well and allowed to settle to the bottom.
b. Deep wells with high water levels may require that chlorine solutions be added through a
hose inserted down the well casing to ensure proper diffusion of the chlorine.
Chlorine can destroy only the bacteria with which it comes in contact. Agitation of the water in
the well may be required to assure thorough mixing. After adding the chlorine, start the pump
and operate until the odor of chlorine is detected at the pump discharge.
3. The storage and distribution system should be disinfected along with the well. Open the house
faucets and let the water run until the odor of chlorine is apparent.
4. Allow the chlorine solution to remain in the well and distribution system for a period of
twenty-four hours. Pump the well and flush the distribution system to remove all traces of
chlorine.
5. After pumping, collect a water sample and submit to a laboratory for a bacteriological analysis
to assure the safety of the water supply. If contamination is shown to be still present in the
water supply, the chlorination procedure should be repeated.
6. When time does not permit well disinfection by the procedure previously described, apply to
the entire depth of the well a total volume of 50 mg/l chlorine solution at least four times
greater than the volume of water in the well. Allow the chlorine solution to remain in the well
for a period of at least two hours. Pump the well and flush the distribution system to remove all
traces of chlorine.
50 MILLIGRAMS PER LITER CHLORINE
Ounces of Disinfectant Per 10-Ft. Depth of Water
Diameter of Well,
Spring, or Pipe, in Gallons of Water Per 65% Calcium 5 1/4% Sodium
Inches Foot of Water Depth Hypochlorite Hypochlorite*
2 0.16 0.02 0.21
3 0.37 0.04 0.47
4 0.65 0.07 0.83

5 1.00 0.10 1.30
6 1.47 0.15 1.87
8 2.61 0.27 3.32
10 4.08 0.31 5.19
12 5.88 0.60 7.47
18 13.22 1.36 16.80
24 23.50 2.41 29.87
36 52.88 5.43 67.20
48 94.01 9.65 119.47
*Sodium Hypochlorite, also known as Bleach, Clorox, etc., can be purchased at most drug and
grocery stores.
One heaping tablespoon of 65% calcium hypochlorite = approximately 1/2 oz.
Six (6) 65% calcium hypochlorite tablets = approximately 1 oz.
Heavy concentrations of chlorine on or near the well screen with waters very high in iron
and/or iron bacteria may result in oxidation of iron on the well screen. Efficiency of the well
screen and well output could be reduced under such conditions.
II. LABORATORY SERVICE. Chemical and microbiological laboratory service is provided by the
department of environmental quality laboratory located at 1205 Avenue A West, Bismarck, North
Dakota. Mailing address is:
Department of Environmental Quality
Division of Laboratory Services
P.O. Box 937
Bismarck, ND 58502
Microbiological laboratory service is available from:
First District Health Unit Southwestern District Health Unit
801 11th Avenue SW 2869 Third Avenue West
P.O. Box 1268 Dickinson, ND 58601
Minot, ND 58702-1268
Fargo Cass Public Health Grand Forks Environmental
Environmental Laboratory Laboratory
435 14th Avenue South 503 South Fourth Street
Fargo, ND 58103 Grand Forks, ND 58201
A. Plumbness and Alignment.
Every public water well, before being officially accepted, should be tested for plumbness and
alignment. The test method to be followed should be clearly stated in the specifications. As a
minimum, a forty-foot [12.19-meter] section of pipe, or rigid dummy of the same length, having
an outside diameter not more than one-half inch [12.7 millimeters] smaller than the diameter of
the casing or hole being tested, shall move freely throughout the length of the casing or hole

to the lowest anticipated pump setting. The well should not vary from the vertical in excess of
two-thirds of the smallest inside diameter of that part of the well being tested, per one hundred
feet [30.48 meters] of depth.
B. Abandoned Wells.
For detailed procedures for abandoning wells, see Section A1-13, Sealing Abandoned Wells,
AWWA Standards for Deep Wells, A100-66 or later amendments prepared by the American
Water Works Association and the National Water Well Association.
C. Springs.
Springs should be considered as a water supply only when it is not possible to develop an
acceptable well. Springs shall be protected from entry of surface water and should be housed
in a permanent structure. Continuous chlorination of springs is recommended to assure the
bacterial purity of the water supply.
D. Continuous Chlorination of Public Well Water Supplies.
Continuous chlorination is recommended for the safeguarding of public well water supplies.
Chlorination not only assists in maintaining the bacterial purity of the water, but also eliminates
the growth of taste-and-odor-producing nuisance organisms.
E. Livestock Wells.
A check valve on the pump discharge line is not required on nonpressurized wells for livestock
use that would be damaged by freezing. The pump discharge line shall have a minimum
airgap equal to twice the effective diameter of the discharge line to prevent backflow or
siphonage into the well to prevent contamination of the well.
Pumping tests of water supply wells can serve many purposes. Properly planned and conducted
tests will reveal information about the performance and efficiency of the well being pumped. In
addition, from the data obtained, calculations can be made which interpret ground water aquifer
performance.
Measuring each well for pump and well yield, depth to water level, drawdown, and specific capacity
should be done on a routine basis. These test results should be compared with previous tests to
estimate current well and/or aquifer conditions.
A. Terminology.
It is important to understand the meaning of the terms used relating to the pumping test. Some
of these terms are as follows:
1. Static Water Level. This is the level at which water stands in the well when no water is
being pumped. It is generally expressed as the distance in feet from the ground surface
to the water level in the well.
2. Pumping Level. This is the level at which water stands in the well when pumping is in
progress. The pumping level may also be referred to as the dynamic water level.
3. Drawdown. When a well is pumped, the water level in the vicinity of the well will be
lowered. Drawdown is the difference, measured in feet, between the static water level
and the pumping level.

4. Well Yield. The well yield is the volume of water per unit of time discharged from a well
either by pumping or by free flow.
5. Specific Capacity. Specific capacity of the well is its yield per unit of drawdown, usually
expressed as gallons per minute (gpm) per foot of drawdown.
B. Determination of Depth to Water Level.
1. Wetted Tape Method. The wetted tape method will accurately measure the depth to water
in a well and can be used for depths up to one hundred feet [30.5 meters] or more.
Attach a lead weight to the end of a steel measuring tape, if needed. Wipe dry the lower
three or four feet [.91 or 1.22 meters] of the tape and coat with carpenter's chalk. Lower
the tape into the well through the air vent or other opening until part of the chalked
section is below water. Continue to lower the tape until the next even foot mark can be
held exactly at a reference point and record the number of feet indicated. The tape is
then removed from the well and note is made of the footage of chalked section washed
away by the water. Subtract this reading from the reading obtained at the top reference
point. The difference in these readings is the depth from the reference point to the water
level.
2. Air Line Method. The air line method measures depth to water level by determining the
air pressure required to push all of the water out of a submerged tube of known length.
The air line consists of a one-fourth inch [6.35 millimeters] pipe, copper or plastic tubing,
extending from the top of the well to a point several feet below the lowest anticipated
water level. To avoid turbulence near the intake of the pump, the lower end of the air line
should be at least five feet [1.52 meters] above or below the point where water enters the
pump. The exact length of the air line must be known or should be measured as it is
placed in the well. Make all joints airtight with white lead or piping compound. The upper
end of the tube is fitted with suitable connections for an air gauge, a tire valve, and an air
pump.

Pump the air into the line until the gauge pressure is constant. This indicates that all of
the water has been expelled from the tube. The gauge reading shows the pressure
necessary to support a column of water of a height equal to the depth the tube was
submerged. If the gauge indicates feet of water, then it shows directly the submerged
length of the line in feet. Subtracting the submerged length from the total length of the air
line gives the depth to static water level. Gauges calibrated in pounds per square inch
(psi) may be converted to feet of water by multiplying by 2.31.
C. Determination of Drawdown.
Example: Depth to water before pumping = 100 feet
Depth to water after pumping = 125 feet
Drawdown = Depth after pumping - depth before pumping
= 125 feet - 100 feet = 25 feet
First, determine the static water level. Second, after the well has achieved a constant pumping
rate or yield, measure the depth to the water level. The difference of these readings before

and after pumping the well at a specific rate is measured in feet and recorded as feet of
drawdown.
D. Determination of Specific Capacity.
Example: Yield of well = 160 gpm Drawdown = 20 feet
Specific capacity = 160/20 = 8 gpm per foot of
drawdown
Specific capacity is calculated by dividing the yield of the well in gallons per minute by the
drawdown. Both measurements shall be taken at the same time.
E. Interpretation of Water Well Problems.
With proper records of water well tests, well problems can be interpreted. Some rules to follow
are:
1. If the output of the well (gpm) drops, the drawdown decreases, and the specific capacity
remains the same, the problem is most likely the pump.
2. If the output of the well (gpm) drops, the static water level remains the same, the
drawdown increases and the specific capacity decreases, the well may be plugging. Acid
clean the well when the specific capacity drops about twenty-five percent.
3. If the output of the well (gpm) drops and the static water level is declining, the aquifer
may be depleting.
Geothermal energy is the renewable thermal energy of the earth or ground water. Using this form of
energy for heating and cooling purposes has become increasingly popular for both commercial and
residential purposes. Geothermal regulations are administered by the North Dakota Geological
Survey, and require a permit from the State Geologist prior to the installation of a geothermal
system. All construction of geothermal energy systems must comply with the rules contained in
chapter 43-02-07, Geothermal Energy Production. These regulations cover both vertical-loop and
horizontal-loop systems. Installers should contact the North Dakota Geological Survey for more
information regarding installation of geothermal energy systems.
Because of the potential for contamination of drinking water systems and aquifers, and the pollution
of surface waters, the department provides the following guidance for users of geothermal energy.
This policy relates primarily to private individual systems. Commercial and industrial projects should
be constructed only after consultation with the department regarding water supply and disposal
requirements and the North Dakota Geological Survey regarding construction permitting
requirements.
1. The department encourages the conservation of ground water resources, therefore,
closed-loop geothermal systems are recommended. Closed-loop systems also have fewer
maintenance problems. If an open-loop system is constructed, whenever possible, the water
should be reinjected into the supply aquifer or used for other beneficial purposes such as
irrigation or stock watering.
2. Users of open-loop geothermal energy systems must be aware of the scale-forming or
corrosive nature of some of the highly mineralized water in North Dakota. Some ground water
supplies may require treatment prior to use, or serious problems with operation of the heat
exchange system can develop. Chemicals used for cleaning the heat exchange system, and

the material removed through cleaning, may not be suitable for discharge to the storm sewer
system. Problems with the development of scale will often reduce the volume of water that can
be disposed into injection wells.
3. All supply and disposal wells shall be constructed to comply with department rules, chapter
33-18-01, "Water Well Construction and Water Well Pump Installation". The geothermal
system should be constructed to eliminate all sources of contamination to the water supply
system and the ground water aquifer.
4. If municipal water supply systems are to be used as a source of geothermal energy, an
approved backflow prevention device shall be used to separate the geothermal energy from
the public water supply system.
5. To protect the drinking water supply, heat exchangers, unless otherwise permitted under the
North Dakota state plumbing code, shall be of double-wall construction with a space between
the two walls which is vented to the atmosphere.
6. Geothermal energy systems shall not discharge water to either municipal drinking water or
sanitary sewer systems. Discharge to the municipal drinking water system is a
cross-connection and could result in chemical and/or microbiological contamination of the
system. Nearly all cities in the state have sewer use ordinances specifically prohibiting the
connection of clear water discharges to the sewer system.
7. Geothermal energy systems may discharge to municipal storm sewer systems with approval
of the municipality, and if the discharge water is compatible with the waters of the receiving
stream. Degradation of surface waters by discharges from geothermal energy systems will not
be allowed.
8. If water is to be reinjected into the ground water system, the discharge should be made to a
similar or inferior quality aquifer.
9. Highly mineralized or saline waters, such as from the Dakota formation, should be returned to
those aquifers if secondary use is not possible.
10. Evaporation ponds, which do not discharge, may be used as a means of disposal where other
methods of disposal are not feasible.
11. Disposal permits under the Underground Injection Control Program or the National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System Regulations may be required. Users of geothermal energy
systems should contact the department to determine whether a permit is required for their
installation.
Reprinted from AWWA Standard for Water Wells, A100-84, by permission. Copyright © 1984,
American Water Works Association.
Section 1.1 - General
The recommendations contained in this appendix pertain to wells and test holes in
consolidated and unconsolidated formations. Each sealing job should be considered as an
individual problem, and methods and materials should be determined only after carefully
considering the objectives outlined in the standard.
Section 1.2 - Wells in Unconsolidated Formations

Normally, abandoned wells extending only into consolidated formations near the surface and
containing water under water-table conditions can be adequately sealed by filling with concrete,
grout, neat cement, clay, or clay and sand. In the event that the water-bearing formation consists of
coarse gravel and producing wells are located nearby, care must be taken to select sealing
materials that will not affect the producing wells. Concrete may be used if the producing wells can
be shut down for a sufficient time to allow the concrete to set. Clean, disinfected sand or gravel
may also be used as fill material opposite the water-bearing formation. The remainder of the well,
especially the upper portion, should be filled with clay, concrete, grout, or neat cement to exclude
surface water. The latter method, using clay as the upper sealing material, is especially applicable
to large-diameter abandoned wells.
In gravel-packed, gravel-envelope, or other wells in which coarse material has been added
around the inner casing to within twenty to thirty feet [6.1 to 9.1 meters] of the surface, sealing
outside the casing is very important. Sometimes this sealing may require removal of the gravel or
perforation of the casing.
Section 1.4 - Wells in Noncreviced Rock Formations
Abandoned wells encountering noncreviced sandstone or other water-bearing consolidated
formations below the surface deposits may be satisfactorily sealed by filling the entire depth with
clay, provided there is no movement of water in the well. Clean sand, disinfected if other producing
wells are nearby, may also be used through the sandstone up to a point ten to twenty feet [3.0 to
6.1 meters] below the bottom of the casing. The upper portion of this type of well should be filled
with concrete, neat cement, grout, or clay to provide an effective seal against entrance of surface
water. If there is an appreciable amount of upward flow, pressure cementing or mudding may be
advisable.
Section 1.5 - Multiple Aquifer Wells
Some special problems may develop in sealing wells extending into more than one aquifer.
These wells should be filled and sealed in such a way that exchange of water from one aquifer to
another is prevented. If no appreciable movement of water is encountered, filling with concrete,
neat cement, grout, or alternate layers of these materials and sand will prove satisfactory. When
velocities are high, the procedures outlined in section 1.6 are recommended. If alternate concrete
plugs or bridges are used, they should be placed in known nonproducing horizons or, if locations of
the nonproducing horizons are not known, at frequent intervals. Sometimes when the casing is not
grouted or the formation is nocaving, it may be necessary to break, slit, or perforate the casing to fill
any annular space on the outside.
Section 1.6 - Wells With Artesian Flow
The sealing of abandoned wells that have a movement of water between aquifers or to the
surface requires special attention. Frequently the movements of water may be sufficient to make
sealing by gravity placement of concrete, cement grout, neat cement, clay, or sand impractical. In
such flow, if preshaped or precast plugs are used, they should be several times longer than the
diameter of the well, to prevent tilting.
Since it is very important in wells of this type to prevent circulation between formations or loss
of water to the surface or to the annular space outside the casing, it is recommended that pressure
cementing, using the minimum quantity of water that will permit handling, be used. The use of
wells, large stone aggregate (not more than one-third of the diameter of the hole), lead wool, steel
shavings, a well packer, or a wood or cast-lead plug or bridge will be needed to restrict the flow and
thereby permit the gravity placement of sealing material above the formation producing the
pressure mudding instead of this process if sometimes permissible.

In wells which the hydrostatic head producing flow to the surface is low, the movement of
water may be arrested by extending the well casing to an elevation above the artesian-pressure
surface. Previously described sealing methods suitable to the geologic conditions can then be
used.
Section 1.7 - Sealing Materials
A number of materials that can be used for sealing wells satisfactorily, including concrete,
cement grout, neat cement, clay, sand, or combinations of these materials, are mentioned in this
appendix. Each material has certain characteristics and distinctive properties; therefore, one
material may be especially suited for doing a particular job. The selection of the material must be
based on the construction of the well, the nature of the formations penetrated, the material and
equipment available, the location of the well with respect to possible sources of contamination, and
the cost of doing the work.
Concrete is generally used for filling the upper part of the well or water-bearing formations, for
plugging short sections of casings, or for filling large-diameter wells. Its use is cheaper than neat
cement or grout, and it makes a stronger plug or seal. However, concrete will not penetrate seams,
crevices, or interstices. Furthermore, if not properly placed, the aggregate is likely to separate from
the cement.
Cement grout or neat cement and water are far superior for sealing small openings, for
penetrating any annular space outside of casings, and for filling voids in the surrounding formation.
When applied under pressure, they are strongly favored for sealing wells under artesian pressure
or those encountering more than one aquifer. Neat cement is generally preferred to grout because
it does not separate.
Clay, as a heavy mud-laden or special clay fluid applied under pressure, has most of the
advantages of cement grout. Its use is preferred by some competent authorities, particularly for
sealing artesian wells. Others feel that it may, under some conditions, eventually be carried away
into the surrounding formations.
Clay in a relatively dry state, clay and sand, or sand alone may be used advantageously as
sealing materials, particularly under water-table conditions where diameters are large, depths are
great, formations are caving, and there is no need for achieving penetration of openings in casings,
liners, or formations, or for obtaining a watertight seal at any given spot.
Frequently combinations of these materials are necessary. The more expensive materials are
used when strength, penetration, or watertightness are needed. The less expensive materials are
used for the remainder of the well. Cement grout or neat cement is now being mixed with bentonite
clays and various aggregates. Superior results and lower cost are claimed for such mixtures.

Welded and Seamless Steel
Pipe Schedule 40 - Standard Weight
Weight Per Foot (lb)
External Internal
Nominal Size Diameter Diameter Wall Thickness Threads and
(Inches) (Inches) (Inches) (Inches) Plain End Couplings
1 1/4 1.660 1.380 0.140 2.27 2.28
1 1/2 1.900 1.610 0.145 2.72 2.73
2 2.375 2.067 0.154 3.65 3.68
2 1/2 2.875 2.469 0.203 5.79 5.82
3 3.500 3.068 0.216 7.58 7.62
3 1/2 4.000 3.568 0.226 9.11 9.20
4 4.500 4.026 0.237 10.79 10.89
5 5.563 5.047 0.258 14.62 14.81
6 6.625 6.065 0.280 18.97 19.18
8 8.625 7.981 0.322 28.55 29.35
10 10.750 10.020 0.365 40.48 41.85
12 12.750 12.000 0.375 49.56 51.15
14 14.000 13.250 0.375 54.57 57.00
16 16.000 15.250 0.375 62.58 65.30
18 18.000 17.250 0.375 70.59 73.00
20 20.000 19.250 0.375 78.60 81.00
22 22.000 21.000 0.500 114.81
24 24.000 23.000 0.500 125.49
26 26.000 25.000 0.500 136.17
28 28.000 27.000 0.500 146.85
30 30.000 29.000 0.500 157.53
32 32.000 31.000 0.500 168.21
34 34.000 33.000 0.500 178.89
36 36.000 35.000 0.500 189.57

Water-Well Reamed and Drifted Pipe
Weight Per Foot (lb)
External Internal
Nominal Size Diameter Diameter Wall Thickness Threads and
(Inches) (Inches) (Inches) (Inches) Plain End Couplings
1 1/4 1.660 1.380 0.140 2.27 2.30
1 1/2 1.900 1.610 0.145 2.72 2.75
2 2.375 2.067 0.154 3.65 3.75
2 1/2 2.875 2.469 0.203 5.79 5.90
3 3.500 3.068 0.216 7.58 7.70
3 1/2 4.000 3.548 0.226 9.11 9.25
4 4.500 4.026 0.237 10.79 11.00
5 5.563 5.047 0.258 14.62 15.00
6 6.625 6.065 0.280 18.97 19.45
8 8.625 7.981 0.322 28.55 29.35
10 10.750 10.020 0.365 40.48 41.85
12 12.750 12.000 0.375 49.56 51.15
*From "1973 Annual Book of ASTM Standards"


