Environmental Health
Water Quality: Well Program
Well Definitions
- Well: A well is any artificial excavation constructed by any method for the purpose of extracting water from, or injecting water or other liquid into the ground, for observation of groundwater for any reason,
for the exploration of the subsurface of the earth, for removal of substances from soil or groundwater,
or for cathodic protection. This definition includes environmental and geotechnical wells.
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Monitoring Wells: Monitoring wells are used in monitoring ground water conditions. These
wells are under permit and are inspected regularly by the Water Quality Control Staff.
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Production Wells: Production wells are used for the removal of ground water for purposes of
irrigating or industrial uses. These wells are under permit and are inspected regularly by the
Water Quality Control Staff.
- Soil Boring: A soil boring is an uncased artificial excavation constructed by any method for the purpose of obtaining information on subsurface conditions or for the purpose of determining the presence or extent of contamination in subsurface soils or groundwater and for seismic information. This definition includes environmental and geotechnical borings, test holes, test wells, and exploration holes.
- Criminal Enforcement: Any person who knowingly violates the permit review and approval process will be subject to criminal enforcement.
- Well Drillers: San Francisco requires that any well or boring work be performed by a licensed well
contractor (C-57 licensee).