Water Wells in Parmer County Require a Permit

All of Parmer County is covered by the High Plains Underground Water Conservation District No. 1 (HPWD). This district manages groundwater across 16 Panhandle counties. If you want to drill a water well, you must apply to HPWD before you start. A non-refundable $250 permit fee applies for wells expected to produce 17.5 gallons per minute or more.

The Ogallala Aquifer supplies most of the region's water. Levels have been falling for decades due to heavy irrigation. HPWD monitors wells across the district each year and sets rules for well spacing to reduce competition between neighboring wells. Before you buy rural land or plan any development, check the permit rules at hpwd.org.