💧 Well Drilling

New Well Drilling — What to Expect in Eastern Washington

Drilling a new well is one of the most significant investments a rural property owner makes. Here is what the process looks like and what it costs in the Spokane Basin and beyond.

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What's Covered

  • ✓ Rotary drill rig advances through soil and rock to the aquifer
  • ✓ Steel casing installed and grout-sealed against surface contamination
  • ✓ Permit-exempt status: most Eastern WA residential wells qualify
  • ✓ Well Report filed with WA Ecology within 60 days — public record
  • ✓ Spokane Basin wells: often 80–200 ft; rural hard rock: 300–500+ ft

Typical Costs in Spokane

Drilling (per foot, Eastern WA)$25 – $50/ft
Steel casing (per foot)$15 – $30/ft
Mobilization fee$500 – $1,500
Complete well 150 ft (no pump)$8,000 – $14,000
Pump and pressure system+$3,500 – $7,000

Common Questions

Do I need a permit to drill a well in Washington?
Most residential Eastern WA wells are permit-exempt under 5,000 gallons/day for household and small irrigation use. Your driller files the Well Report with Ecology — you get a copy.
How long does it take?
Drilling: 1–3 days. Scheduling the rig: 2–8 weeks depending on season and availability. Pump installation: 1 additional day. Water at the tap: typically 3–10 weeks from contract.
What yield should I expect?
WA requires minimum 1 GPM for residential permit-exempt wells. Most Spokane Basin wells yield significantly more. Your driller conducts a yield test during development and documents it in the Well Report.

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