Water well permits and setbacks near Oklahoma City
A household well usually needs no OWRB permit, but some cities require a building permit for a water well, and every well must meet state setbacks (OWRB Wells and Licensing).
Do I need an OWRB permit for a home well?
No, as of November 2, 2026: domestic use, meaning household use, livestock up to the land's grazing capacity and irrigation under 3 acres, needs no OWRB intent-to-drill authorization (OWRB Wells and Licensing).
Does Yukon require a permit for a water well?
Yes. Yukon's Development Services guide lists water wells among the projects that need a City building permit (City of Yukon Development Services guide). Other cities vary, so ask city hall where your land is.
How far must a well be from a septic tank in Oklahoma?
50 feet if the well is uphill, 75 feet if level and 100 feet if downhill, per the OWRB rule checked November 2, 2026 (OAC 785:35-7-1).
Other setbacks
- 10 feet from a closed sanitary sewer line (OAC 785:35-7-1).
- 25 feet from aerobic sprinkler spray and 50 feet from an aerobic sprinkler head (OAC 785:35-7-1).
- 300 feet from a feedlot or animal waste lagoon (OAC 785:35-7-1).
Full construction minimums are on our rules page. Planning a septic system too? See the OKC Metro Septic Guide.
Related: check a driller · DEQ lab test prices · plugging an old well · permits and setbacks · costs