Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia
Department 391 - RULES OF GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
Chapter 391-3 - ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Subject 391-3-2 - GROUNDWATER USE
Rule 391-3-2-.14 - Abandoned Wells
Current through Rules and Regulations filed through September 23, 2024
(1) Any existing well or wells which have been abandoned and no longer put to beneficial use and which have been deemed by the Division to have an unreasonable or potential unreasonable adverse effect on other water uses or users, or which result, or may result, in physical or chemical impairment of the aquifer or ground water system, shall be filled, plugged and sealed at the owner's expense in a manner acceptable to and approved by the Division.
(2) Whenever the Division deems an abandoned well to be an imminent danger to health, safety or welfare of the public or to the ground water quality, the well may be plugged, filled, and sealed by the Division Such action shall be taken only after notice to the owner and after a period of five days from such notice, during which period the owner may file an objection to such action. If such an objection is filed, the Division shall not permanently plug, fill and seal the well, but may install a temporary plug or seal.
(3) Upon the filing, plugging and sealing of an abandoned well or wells, the Division shall be informed by certified statement from the contractor within thirty (30) days after the sealing that the well or wells have been sealed according to the procedure approved by the Division.
(4) Observation wells used for the investigation or management of ground water by the Division or approved for this purpose shall not be considered "abandoned" so long as they are maintained for this purpose. Wells without shall be covered with a secure cap when measurements are not being made.
O.C.G.A. Sec. 12-5-91.
