My Well Ran Dry: Options and Next Steps
Your well ran dry—now what? Learn possible causes, options like deepening vs. new well, cost ranges, permit implications, and how to find a licensed driller.
Key Takeaways
- Causes include drought, seasonal variation, well age, and neighboring pumping
- Deepening ($5K–$25K+) or new well ($15K–$75K+) require permits; C-57 contractor handles both
- Confirm well is actually dry—pump or plumbing issues can mimic low yield
- Get 2–3 quotes from licensed drillers; verify permits before work
A dry well is stressful—especially when it's your only water source. Whether it happened gradually or suddenly, understanding your options can help you make a clear-headed decision. Here's what California well owners need to know.
Possible Causes
Drought and Overuse
Extended drought lowers groundwater levels. In the Central Valley and other heavily pumped basins, water tables have dropped significantly. Wells that produced reliably for decades may no longer reach the aquifer.
Seasonal Variation
Water levels often fluctuate with the seasons. A well that runs low in late summer may recover after winter recharge. If the problem is seasonal, you may be able to manage with storage, conservation, or temporary water hauling until levels rebound.
Well Age and Design
Older wells may have been drilled to shallower depths when the water table was higher. Screen placement, casing condition, or sediment buildup can also reduce yield over time.
Neighboring Pumping
New wells or increased agricultural or municipal pumping nearby can draw down the aquifer and affect your well's production.
What to Do First
- Confirm the well is actually dry — Have a licensed driller or pump professional inspect. Sometimes the issue is pump, pressure tank, or plumbing rather than the well itself.
- Check well logs and neighbors — If nearby wells are also struggling, it may be a basin-wide issue.
- Get multiple quotes — Contact at least 2–3 C-57 licensed contractors for deepening or new well estimates.
- Verify permits — Ensure your contractor will handle permits and that your project complies with local rules.
Your Options
1. Deepen the Existing Well
If the aquifer has dropped below your current well depth, deepening may restore production. A C-57 licensed contractor can:
- Assess the existing well and local geology
- Obtain a deepening permit from the county
- Drill deeper and extend the casing/screen into productive zones
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical cost | $5,000–$25,000+ depending on depth and geology |
| Timeline | 1–4 weeks for permits; 1–3 days for drilling |
| Consider | Not all wells can be deepened; casing diameter, geology, and permit rules may limit options |
2. Drill a New Well
If deepening isn't feasible—or if the existing well is too old or poorly constructed—a new well may be the best option. This requires a new well permit and full construction.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical cost | $15,000–$75,000+ depending on depth and location |
| Timeline | 2–8 weeks for permits; drilling varies by depth and conditions |
See our guide to well drilling costs in California for more detail.
3. Water Hauling (Temporary)
For short-term needs, water hauling can bridge the gap. Companies deliver potable water to storage tanks. Useful while you evaluate options, wait for permits, or see if seasonal recharge helps.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Varies by volume and distance; often $200–$500+ per delivery |
4. Connect to Municipal Water (If Available)
If your property can connect to a water district or municipal system, that may be an option. Connection costs and availability vary widely. Some rural areas have no nearby infrastructure.
Permit Implications
- Deepening requires a permit; your contractor typically handles the application.
- New well requires a full construction permit.
- In critically over-drafted basins (SGMA), additional water availability assessments may be required. Your county or groundwater sustainability agency can advise.
See our California well permit guide for an overview.
Find a Licensed Driller
All well drilling, deepening, and destruction work in California must be performed by a contractor with an active C-57 Well Drilling Contractor license. Use our California Well Driller Directory to search by county or city. Every listing includes license and bond verification from the CSLB.