Well sealing cost-share

We offer grants to seal wells that are no longer in use and have potential to contaminate groundwater resources. Unused and unsealed wells can pose a threat to our drinking water by acting as a channel between the surface and the aquifer below.

If you have a well on your property that is not in use, it must either be sealed or put back into service. Learn how to locate a well on your property from the Minnesota Department of Health.

Applications will be accepted from Wednesday, April 1 to Monday, June 1, 2026.

Available funds 

Property owners can be reimbursed for up to 75 percent of the cost to seal wells. Maximum reimbursement of $2,000 per well.

Eligibility

Wells must be located in a Wellhead Protection Area or Drinking Water Supply Management Area to be eligible for funding.

Properties that are currently listed for sale are not eligible for funding.

The county also considers disparity elimination efforts and equitable geographic distribution when awarding funding. The county reserves the right to refuse funding or to partially fund an application.

Application

Applications will be accepted from Wednesday, April 1 to Monday, June 1, 2026. Applicants will be notified about funding in July.

Process

1. Get two bids from state-licensed contractors. List of contractors licensed with the Minnesota Department of Health.
2. Complete the well sealing cost-share funding application. You will attach your bids in the application.

The application form is available from April 1 until June 1.

Well sealing cost-share application form

State requirements for unused wells

Minnesota state law (Minnesota Statutes 103I) requires that all unused wells be permanently sealed by a licensed well contractor to protect groundwater. If a well is not in use but desired for future use, an annual maintenance permit is required from the Minnesota Department of Health.