Drilling a Water Well in Edwards County Requires a Permit First

Most of Edwards County runs on groundwater. The county gets about 22 inches of rain a year. Surface water is scarce outside of springs and small rivers. Before you drill a well, you need a permit. File an application with the Real-Edwards Conservation and Reclamation District first. Call their office at 830-232-5733 to get the form and ask about local rules.

The district was originally created in 1959. It covers both Edwards and Real counties. It became inactive over the years and was reorganized in 2000, with rules taking effect in January 2002. It watches over groundwater quantity and quality. It reviews every well construction request. If you are buying rural property, check whether any existing well is registered with the district. Also find out if the water has been tested. The Texas Water Development Board's website has more background on the district's management plan.