Permits for Your Well or Water System Project
3Rd Gen Drilling
Understanding Utah Well Drilling Permits with 3Rd Gen Drilling
At 3Rd Gen Drilling, we know that navigating permits can be confusing — but proper authorization is essential before drilling or servicing any well system in Utah. Permits help ensure compliance with state and county regulations, protect your property rights, and keep your water system safe and legal.
Additionally, some counties require both a well permit and, or for the well to be metered. The specific requirements for your property will be in the final state / county permits. Before any drilling work begins, it’s important to understand what permits are required and how to obtain them — and we’re here to help every step of the way.
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Why Permits Matter
State and local permits are legally required before drilling a water well or performing associated work in Utah. These approvals protect groundwater resources, property owners, and the long-term reliability of your water system.
Obtaining the proper permits ensures:
Compliance with Utah state water laws and regulations
Legal authorization to appropriate and use groundwater
Protection of groundwater resources and neighboring properties
Proper well construction standards and safety requirements
Avoidance of fines, penalties, or costly project shutdowns
Smooth scheduling without unexpected delays
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What Permits Are Required?
State Well Permit (Start Card)
All water wells in Utah must have a state permit approved before drilling can begin. You or your contractor must submit an application to the Utah Division of Water Rights to obtain your permit — often called a “Start Card.” This application is required under Utah water law to appropriate groundwater before drilling.
To start your application, visit the Utah Water Rights Division website, navigate to Water Rights → Forms, and select “APPLICATION TO APPROPRIATE WATER.”
Local County Requirements
In addition to the state permit, some Utah counties may require their own permits, meter installations, or inspections. These additional county requirements vary by jurisdiction and will appear on your final state or local permit documentation.
Water Rights and Appropriation
Because groundwater in Utah is regulated, any use that diverts water generally requires an approved water right. This approval must be obtained before the drilling permit can be issued, and it is part of the state permitting process.
Note: Permits are not optional — drilling or operating a water well without proper permits can result in fines, regulatory enforcement, or project delays.
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How the Permitting Process Works
Step 1: Assess Permit Needs
Before submitting any applications, we help determine which permits you need — state, county, or both — based on your project and location.
Step 2: Apply for State Permits
You (or your authorized representative) complete the state permit application via the Utah Division of Water Rights portal and receive your Start Card once approved.
Step 3: County Compliance
If county permits or meter requirements apply, we’ll guide you through those local steps so all authorizations are in place before drilling begins.
Step 4: Provide Start Card to Driller
Once your state permit (Start Card) is ready, provide it to our drilling team so we can begin your project legally and on schedule.
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t let permit confusion delay your water well or pump system. We make the permitting process as smooth as possible — from guidance to completion.
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Permits Help You Avoid Delays
Proper permits ensure your drilling or water system project stays compliant and avoids costly hold-ups. With 3Rd Gen Drilling’s guidance, you’ll have the confidence to move forward and get the water access you need — without uncertainty.
