New Well and New Source Approval

The First Step: Preliminary Approval

Before drilling the well you must have the site you have selected approved by the Drinking Water Program. The State of Maine Rules Relating to Drinking Water requires that the well be set back by at least 300 feet from any potential sources of contamination (such as fuel tanks and leach fields). If site conditions require it, you can request a waiver of this setback requirement.

Preliminary Approval requires that you submit 3 things:

  • A Completed Application Form

The form asks for a description of the facility and questions about the water system.

Community Public Water System serving 250 or more people

Community Public Water System serving less than 250 people

Non-Transient Non-Community Public Water System

Transient Public Water System - groundwater

Transient Public Water System - surface water

Setback Waiver Policy (pdf version)

Pump Test and Delineation Plan Guidance

  • A Location Map

An "x" drawn on a copy of a USGS topographic map or a map from the Maine Atlas and Gazetteer is sufficient.

  • A Site Plan

A more detailed map of the well site and public water system property which includes:

  • a scale (1"=100' or larger)
  • potential sources of contamination within at least 300 feet of the well
  • property boundaries
  • a description of land uses on adjacent properties
  • the general slope of land near the well
  • surface water bodies near the well


The Second Step: Final Approval

After drilling the well you must test it. This involves a pump test and tests of water quality. Final approval requires that you submit 2 things:

  • Well Construction Information:
    The well driller can provide you with information about the depth of the well, the length of casing, the type and depth of the pump, etc.
  • Water Quality Data:
    After a pump test of at least 48 hours, samples must be collected and the water tested to ensure it meets drinking water standards. Contact the Drinking Water Program for a list of the tests required for your type of well.

If you have any further questions, contact the Field Inspection Team Manager at (207) 287-5685.