What You Really Need to Know About Drilling a Well in the Mountains
A couple of months ago, my pastor shared a story that stuck with me. As he drove by the site of his brand-new build in Bailey, Colorado, he watched the well being drilled—and with each passing hour, he knew the cost was climbing. It was a powerful reminder that when it comes to mountain living, the price of paradise includes a few hidden costs… and a well is one of them!
If you're dreaming of owning land in the mountains, there's a good chance your future home won’t be connected to city water. Instead, you’ll be responsible for drilling your own well—and that means planning ahead both financially and logistically.
Start with Zoning
Before you even think about breaking ground, it's essential to understand your property’s zoning. Not all land is created equal! Most parcels under 35 acres are typically zoned for domestic wells, which means your well can be used for household purposes like drinking water, showers, and laundry—but not for livestock or irrigation. These wells typically have a flow rate under 15 gallons per minute.
Buying a larger property? You may be able to drill a stock/agricultural well, which provides water for both residential use and animals or crops. These typically allow for higher output (as much as 35 gallons per minute) but come with specific guidelines based on your county.
Permits and Prep Time
Next up—permits. Yep, you’ll need one from your county before you can drill. Depending on where you're buying, the process can take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks, so factor this into your build timeline.
Pro tip: Work with a well drilling company early in the process. Many offer guidance on permitting and can help set expectations for depth, flow rates, and costs in your specific area.
Drilling Day Details
Once you’re permitted and ready to drill, the real adventure begins! Well depth (and cost!) can vary dramatically depending on your location. While your driller may have general data from surrounding properties, there’s no way to know exactly how deep they’ll need to go to find a good water source.
And remember: deeper wells = higher costs. Always budget for more than you think you’ll need to avoid any financial surprises.
Final Thoughts: Your Mountain Dream Starts Here
Drilling a well might not be the most glamorous part of mountain homeownership—but it’s one of the most important. With the right planning, the right professionals, and a healthy dose of patience, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying fresh, clean water straight from your land.
Welcome to the mountains—where owning property means more freedom, more wildlife, and more connection to nature. It’s a lifestyle like no other, and preparation is the first step to loving where you live!
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