Ask the subsidence district before drilling a water well

Pumping too much groundwater can press fine soil layers together. That can make the ground sink. The Fort Bend Subsidence District controls groundwater pumping across the county to slow this sinking.

Most new wells must be registered before drilling. District staff then decides whether a permit is needed. Owners of permitted wells report the past year's pumping by January 31. Charges depend on the well and its allowed use.

Some small home wells and special-use wells may be excluded. The answer can turn on the well's size, age, use, and location. Ask the district to rule on the well before drilling. Do not assume that an exemption fits.