Groundwater Rules

A Groundwater District Regulates Water Wells in Most of Howard County

Most of Howard County falls under the Permian Basin Underground Water Conservation District, which requires permits and spacing rules for new water wells.

Howard County Home & Property

The Permian Basin Underground Water Conservation District (PBUWCD) oversees groundwater in most of Howard County. The main aquifer here is the Ogallala, a large underground formation that supplies water across the region. The district monitors water levels each year to track how pumping affects the aquifer.

If you plan to drill a new water well, you will likely need a permit from the district. As of rules effective January 1, 2025, there is a $200 application fee. Wells must meet spacing requirements — at least 150 feet from property lines and 300 feet from any existing well. Check with PBUWCD at pbuwcd.com or call (432) 756-2136 before drilling.

Source to confirm: Permian Basin Underground Water Conservation District

More Howard County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Howard County

Howard County has two separate offices for property taxes — the appraisal district sets your value, and the tax assessor-collector sends your bill.

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Property Tax Savings

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Tax Bill in Big Spring

If you own and live in your home in Howard County, a homestead exemption can reduce the taxable value of your property.

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Agricultural Appraisal

Farm and Ranch Land Can Be Taxed on Productivity, Not Market Value

In Howard County, agricultural land can qualify for a special lower tax valuation based on what the land produces, not what it would sell for.

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Mineral Rights

Oil and Gas Activity Is Common in Howard County — Know Who Owns the Minerals

Howard County sits in the Permian Basin, where active oil and gas drilling is common — and mineral rights are often owned separately from the surface land.

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