Many Oregonians use water wells on their properties. Since the 1960s, well drillers have been statutorily required to submit well logs to Oregon Water Resources Department (“OWRD”) for each water well they drill or modify. Well drillers are also statutorily required to record identification numbers on any water wells drilled, deepened, converted, or altered since 1996 within 30 days after completion of the construction.
Additionally, if a property with an unidentified water well is sold, the owner of the property is statutorily required to record an identification number obtained from OWRD on the water well within 30 days of the sale. This photo from the state’s Water Well Handbook shows an example of a water well with an identification number recorded on it. To apply to OWRD for an identification number for a water well on your recently purchased or sold property click here.
Property purchases are complicated! Here at Schroeder Law Offices, we find that many people who purchase or sell a property with a water well or water use rights overlook important housekeeping matters unique to water wells and water rights. Stay tuned to our blog for more helpful tips.
