Well Drillers in Modoc County, California

Modoc County is California's remote northeastern corner, a sparsely populated land of high desert, lava beds, and cattle ranches. Nearly all water supply comes from private wells, serving ranches, farms, and the small communities of Alturas, Cedarville, and Tulelake.

Licensed Contractors

2

Avg. Well Depth

~150 ft

County Seat

Alturas

Licensed C-57 Contractors in Modoc County

Well Drilling Permits in Modoc County

Modoc County Environmental Health handles well permits. Remote locations and limited contractor availability can affect project timelines. Standard state well construction requirements apply.

All well construction, modification, or destruction in California must be performed by a contractor holding a valid C-57 Well Drilling license issued by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

Geology & Drilling Conditions in Modoc County

Volcanic geology from the Modoc Plateau includes basalt flows, tuff, and volcanic sediments. Groundwater is found in fractured basalt and between lava flow layers. The Surprise Valley along the Nevada border has productive alluvial aquifers fed by mountain runoff.

Frequently Asked Questions About Well Drilling in Modoc County

Do I need a permit to drill a well in Modoc County?
Yes, a well permit is required before any drilling can begin in Modoc County. Modoc County Environmental Health handles well permits. Remote locations and limited contractor availability can affect project timelines. Standard state well construction requirements apply. All well work must be performed by a contractor holding a valid California C-57 Well Drilling license.
How much does it cost to drill a well in Modoc County?
Well drilling costs in Modoc County typically range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on depth, geological conditions, and site accessibility. Average well depths in the area are around 150 feet. Getting quotes from multiple licensed C-57 contractors is the best way to estimate your specific project cost.
How deep are wells typically drilled in Modoc County?
Wells in Modoc County average around 150 feet deep, though actual depth varies with location, geology, and intended use. Volcanic geology from the Modoc Plateau includes basalt flows, tuff, and volcanic sediments. Groundwater is found in fractured basalt and between lava flow layers. The Surprise Valley along the Nevada border has productive alluvial aquifers fed by mountain runoff.
How do I find a licensed well driller in Modoc County?
You can browse our directory of verified C-57 licensed well drilling contractors serving Modoc County right on this page. Every contractor listed holds a valid California C-57 Well Drilling license verified through the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). We recommend contacting multiple drillers for quotes and checking their license status before hiring.
What should I know about water quality from a well in Modoc County?
Water quality from private wells in Modoc County depends on local geology and land use. It is recommended that you test your well water annually for bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminants. Modoc County Environmental Health can provide guidance on recommended testing. California does not regulate private well water quality, so testing is the homeowner's responsibility.

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