Abandoned wells are a potential threat to health, safety, and the environment. Abandoned wells are often sealed to reduce these risks. Sealing is the process of clearing an unused well of debris and filling the well with grout.
When a well is not being used, it must be either brought back into use, sealed, or annually
permitted as an unused well. In Dakota County, this requirement is enforced at the time of property transaction. Under State law, a seller failing to properly disclose a well is liable for well sealing costs for six years after the date of the sale.
A well must be sealed if it:
- is not in use,
- is contaminated,
- was improperly sealed in the past,
- threatens the quality of the groundwater, or
- poses a health or safety threat.
State law requires that only
licensed well contractors seal wells. Don't try to do it yourself. A licensed well contractor has the necessary equipment and expertise to seal your well properly. The contractor will complete all of the necessary paperwork including
permits.
Well Sealing Grant ProgramOngoing program - apply any time the property is not for sale.
Property owners in Dakota County with abandoned wells may be eligible for a grant program to help pay the cost of sealing their well. Eligible wells include those that are not part of a property sale and are not in the process of being prepared for sale.
Successful applicants will receive 50 percent of the cost to properly seal a well that is no longer used. Highest priority will be given to wells with the highest potential to contaminate groundwater, or to be affected by already contaminated groundwater.
This grant program is funded by the Dakota County Community Development Agency. Grant applications will be received on an ongoing basis while the annual program funds remain available. Additional applications will be forwarded to the next years Well Seal Grant Program. The grant application is available below or call 952-891-7008.