Protecting your wellhead
Oklahoma DEQ cites OWRB rules requiring 100 feet from uphill pollution sources such as septic systems, 50 feet from downhill sources and 75 feet from sources at the same elevation.
The wellhead
Oklahoma DEQ advises keeping a well at least 50 feet from buildings, which may have been treated for termites.
Oklahoma DEQ says the casing should stick up at least 12 inches above the ground and the ground should slope water away from the well.
Oklahoma DEQ says the top of the casing should have a commercial sanitary well seal, old seals should be replaced, and cables through the seal should be caulked.
Oklahoma DEQ says any vent in the well seal should point down and be screened.
The Missouri DNR says state law requires the wellhead to stand at least one foot above grade, and owners should guard it from mowers and equipment.
The Missouri DNR tells owners to keep gasoline and chemicals out of the well house and keep setbacks from septic systems, fuel tanks and feedlots.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension says a well cap must fit tightly and be sealed so surface pollutants cannot get in, and should be hard to remove by hand.
Sources: Oklahoma setback distances; Missouri: wellhead height; A cap must seal tight
Common questions
How do I protect my well from contamination?
Oklahoma DEQ cites OWRB rules requiring 100 feet from uphill pollution sources such as septic systems, 50 feet from downhill sources and 75 feet from sources at the same elevation.