Do I Need a Permit to Install a Dry Well? 5 Key Facts

 

Introduction

Do I need a permit to install a dry well? Yes, in most cases, you will need a permit to install a dry well on your property. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Check Local Regulations. Contact your local building department.
2. Complete Required Paperwork. Submit necessary documents and fees.
3. Obtain the Permit Before Installation. Ensure compliance to avoid future issues.

Dry wells play a crucial role in managing excess water runoff and preventing soil erosion. They help keep your property safe from water damage and foundation issues. However, before you start digging, it’s essential to understand the permitting process to avoid legal complications and ensure your dry well functions properly.

Each state and locality has specific regulations about dry well installations. For instance, on Long Island, New York, home owners must obtain a permit before installation. This ensures that dry wells are legally and safely installed, protecting groundwater and adhering to local codes.

I’m Joe Gerrior, owner of Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction Corp. With over 34 years of experience in landscape and masonry services, I’ve assisted many homeowners with their dry well installations, ensuring they meet all required permits and regulations.

Understanding Dry Wells

Dry wells are underground structures designed to manage stormwater runoff, prevent soil erosion, and protect your property from water damage. They work by collecting excess rainwater and allowing it to percolate back into the ground, recharging the aquifer and reducing the risk of flooding.

Function

Dry wells serve several important functions:

• Stormwater Management: They provide a direct route for rainwater to drain deep into the soil, reducing surface runoff.
• Groundwater Recharge: By allowing water to seep into the ground, dry wells help replenish underground water supplies.
• Erosion Control: They prevent soil erosion by directing water away from vulnerable areas.
• Property Protection: Dry wells help prevent water damage to foundations and landscaping.

Types of Dry Wells

There are three main types of dry wells, each with its own cost and installation requirements:

1. Gravel Dry Wells: Also known as seepage pits, these are the most cost-effective option. They consist of a hole filled with gravel, which allows water to seep into the ground.
2. Cost: $50–$250
3. Installation: Requires digging a hole and filling it with gravel. Labor costs range from $5 to $13 per linear foot, and gravel costs around $45 to $55 per yard.
4. Plastic Dry Wells: These are more advanced and come with a prefabricated container. They are lined with gravel and connected to drainage pipes.
5. Cost: $90–$650
6. Installation: Involves digging a hole, lining it with gravel, and installing the plastic container and drainage pipes. The initial cost ranges from $90 to $350, with an additional $300 for added drains.
7. Concrete Dry Wells: The most expensive and advanced option, concrete dry wells use machinery for installation and can manage a larger volume of water.
8. Cost: $300–$4,500+
9. Installation: Requires heavy machinery to dig and install the concrete container. These wells can hold significantly more water than gravel or plastic systems.

Real-World Examples

In states like Oregon and Washington, where dry wells are used extensively, local regulations often require specific design features to ensure groundwater safety. For instance, Oregon typically mandates a two-stage dry well system with structural and/or vegetated pretreatment to remove sediment and pollutants before water enters the well.

Understanding the different types and functions of dry wells is crucial for homeowners considering this solution for managing stormwater runoff. With the right type and proper installation, dry wells can provide long-lasting benefits for your property and the environment.

Next, we’ll dive into the legal requirements and local regulations surrounding dry well installation to answer the common question: “Do I need a permit to install a dry well?”

Do I Need a Permit to Install a Dry Well?

Before installing a dry well, it’s important to understand the legal requirements and local regulations. This ensures compliance and helps avoid future issues when selling your home or maintaining groundwater quality.

Permit Requirements Across Different States

Permit requirements for dry wells vary by state and even by locality. Here’s a quick look at the regulations in some key states:

• New York: A permit is required before installing a dry well. Homeowners must obtain this from the local building department.
• New Jersey: Similar to New York, New Jersey also mandates a permit for dry well installation, with specific guidelines on vertical distance from the water table.
• Massachusetts: No permit is required for dry wells in most cases, but local regulations may still apply.
• Oregon: Requires a permit for dry wells, especially those considered high-risk, with up to six monitoring checks per year.
• Washington: A permit is also mandatory, with a focus on maintaining a 100 ft horizontal distance from drinking water wells.

The differences in regulations are often due to varying geologic conditions like precipitation levels and water table depths.

How to Obtain a Permit

To obtain a permit for your dry well installation, follow these steps:

1. Contact Your Local Building Department: Start by reaching out to your local building department to understand the specific requirements for your area. They will provide the necessary forms and guidelines.
2. Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents, which typically include:
3. A detailed site plan showing the location of the dry well.
4. Soil and percolation test results.
5. Specifications of the dry well system, including size and materials.
6. Submit Your Application: Submit your completed application along with the required fees. Some states may only require a small registration fee, while others might have more extensive requirements.
7. Inspection: Once your application is approved, an inspection may be scheduled to ensure compliance with local codes and regulations.
8. Approval: After passing the inspection, you will receive your permit, allowing you to proceed with the installation.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your dry well installation is legal and meets all local regulations. This not only safeguards your property but also contributes to the protection of groundwater resources.

Next, we’ll discuss the best practices for installing a dry well, including the recommended distances from your house and the appropriate depth and size for optimal performance.

Installation Guidelines and Best Practices

How Far Should a Dry Well Be from the House?

When installing a dry well, it’s crucial to maintain the right distance from your house to avoid potential problems like water damage or soil erosion. Minimum distances are often specified by local regulations and can vary based on your location.

General guidelines suggest placing a dry well at least 10 to 15 feet away from your house. This helps to ensure that water doesn’t seep back into your home’s foundation, which can cause structural issues.

In some states, specific distances are mandated. For example:
– Washington and West Virginia require a 100-foot separation from drinking water wells.
– Illinois mandates a 200-foot distance.
– Oregon requires a 500-foot separation.

These distances help protect your water supply from contamination and ensure the dry well functions effectively.

How Deep and Big Should Your Dry Well Be?

Depth and size are critical factors that determine the efficiency of your dry well. The ideal depth and size depend on various factors including soil type, average rainfall, and the area you need to drain.

Depth Guidelines

The depth of a dry well is often influenced by the vertical distance to the water table:
– Delaware, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and West Virginia require a minimum vertical distance of 2 feet from the water table.
– Washington requires a 5-foot distance.
– Arizona mandates a 10-foot separation.

These guidelines help ensure that the dry well effectively manages stormwater without contaminating groundwater.

Capacity Needs

The size of your dry well should match the volume of water it needs to handle. Here is a rough estimate based on lawn size:
– 50–250 gallons: Suitable for small lawns, costing between $500 and $1,200.
– 250–500 gallons: Ideal for medium-sized lawns, ranging from $1,200 to $4,400.
– 500–3,000 gallons: Best for large properties, costing $4,400+.

Consulting with a professional can help you determine the precise size needed for your property. They will consider factors like soil absorption rate, lawn type, and local rainfall patterns.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your dry well will be both effective and compliant with local regulations. This helps prevent issues and protects your property from water damage.

Next, we will explore the maintenance and lifespan of dry wells to ensure long-term performance and durability.

Maintenance and Lifespan of Dry Wells

What is the Life Expectancy of a Dry Well?

A well-maintained dry well can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. The lifespan largely depends on factors like the type of materials used, the volume of water it handles, and how well it is maintained.

Durability is a key consideration. Plastic containers typically last longer than gravel pits due to their resistance to erosion and clogging. However, even the best materials can deteriorate if not properly cared for.

Regular Maintenance for Optimal Performance

To ensure your dry well functions efficiently and lasts its full lifespan, regular maintenance is crucial. Here are some key tips:

Cleaning

Regular cleaning prevents debris and sediment from accumulating and causing clogs. Monthly checks for leaves, dirt, and other debris can keep the system clear. If neglected, these obstructions can lead to standing water and reduced efficiency.

Structural Checks

Inspect the structural integrity of your dry well at least once a year. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or erosion, especially if you have a concrete or plastic container. Professional inspections can identify issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye.

Preventive Measures

Taking preventive steps can save you from costly repairs and extend the life of your dry well:

• Install a Filter: Adding a filter to your drainage system can catch debris before it enters the dry well.
• Redirect Runoff: Ensure that water is properly channeled into the dry well to avoid overflow and erosion around the structure.
• Monitor Water Levels: Regularly check for standing water, which can indicate a problem with drainage or absorption.

By following these maintenance tips and conducting regular inspections, you can maximize the efficiency and longevity of your dry well. This proactive approach helps avoid potential water damage and ensures your system continues to function optimally.

Next, we will delve into the legal and environmental considerations of dry well installations.

Legal and Environmental Considerations

When installing a dry well, it’s crucial to understand the legal and environmental considerations involved. These considerations help ensure that your dry well system is effective and safe for the environment. Let’s explore the key aspects:

Impact on Local Water Tables and Aquifers

Dry wells are designed to manage stormwater by allowing it to infiltrate the ground, which can help recharge local aquifers. However, if not properly managed, they can pose risks to groundwater safety.

Contamination Risks: One of the primary concerns is the potential for contaminants in stormwater runoff to reach groundwater supplies. This is especially critical in areas where the water table is close to the surface.

Soil Filtration: The soil acts as a natural filter, removing pollutants from the water as it percolates down. However, if the dry well bypasses this natural filtration process, contaminants could enter the aquifer more easily.

Pretreatment Requirements: Many states mandate pretreatment measures to remove sediments and pollutants before water enters the dry well. For example, Oregon typically requires a two-stage system with structural and/or vegetative pretreatment to minimize contamination risks.

Regulations and Environmental Safety

Ensuring compliance with local and federal regulations is vital for the safe and legal installation of dry wells.

EPA Guidelines: The EPA regulates dry wells under the Underground Injection Control (UIC) program, as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act. The UIC program sets standards for the construction, operation, permitting, and closure of injection wells, including dry wells.

State Regulations: Regulations can vary significantly from state to state. For instance, Washington and Oregon have primacy over their UIC programs and have developed extensive guidelines to protect groundwater. These guidelines often include mandatory separation distances from public supply wells and natural water bodies, as well as restrictions on high-risk land uses.

High-Risk Land Uses: Certain areas, such as vehicle servicing areas and gas stations, are considered high-risk due to the potential for hazardous chemicals to contaminate stormwater. States like New Jersey and West Virginia prohibit dry wells in these locations, while others, like Wyoming, require special equipment such as oil/water separators to mitigate risks.

Safe Practices: Following best practices is essential for environmental safety. This includes ensuring adequate separation distances, using appropriate pretreatment methods, and regularly monitoring the system to detect and address any issues promptly.

By adhering to these regulations and guidelines, you can ensure that your dry well system is not only effective but also environmentally safe.

Next, we will explore the impact of dry wells on local water tables and aquifers in greater detail.

Conclusion

Installing a dry well offers numerous long-term benefits for homeowners. It helps manage excess water runoff, prevents soil erosion, and protects your home’s foundation from water damage. By diverting water away from problem areas, dry wells can save you from costly repairs down the line.

However, with these benefits comes responsibility. It’s crucial to ensure that your dry well is installed legally and safely. This means obtaining the necessary permits, adhering to local regulations, and following best practices for environmental safety.

Gerrior Masonry & Landscaping is committed to providing high-quality dry well installation services. We understand the importance of compliance with local codes and environmental guidelines. Our team of experts will ensure that your dry well is installed correctly, using the best materials and methods.

By choosing us, you can rest assured that your installation will not only meet legal requirements but also contribute to safeguarding our water supply for future generations.

For more information or to schedule your installation, visit our dry well installers service page.

Let’s work together to protect your home and our environment.