Get An Instant Quote on Oregon Landowner’s Water Well Bonds Now
| Oregon Landowner’s Water Well Bond ($5,000) |  |
| Oregon Landowner’s Water Well Bond ($10,000) | |
Introduction
In Oregon, private landowners have the title to construct, alter, maintain, or abandon a water well on their own property, provided they comply with state laws and regulations. A landowner’s water well is typically drilled for personal, non-commercial use—such as domestic water supply, irrigation, or livestock watering.
While Oregon law generally requires that wells be constructed by licensed well constructors, exceptions exist for landowners performing the work themselves. However, to ensure that these wells are constructed properly and in accordance with environmental and safety standards, the state mandates that landowners secure a Landowner’s Water Well Bond before beginning work.
The Oregon Landowner’s Water Well Bond
The Oregon Landowner’s Water Well Bond is a type of surety bond required by the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) for private landowners who intend to construct, alter, or abandon a water well on their property without hiring a licensed water well constructor. This bond ensures the landowner will comply with all applicable Oregon laws, rules, and construction standards related to water well activities.
Purpose Of The Bond
The main purpose of the Oregon Landowner’s Water Well Bond is to:
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Ensure compliance with Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) governing water well construction, maintenance, and abandonment.
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Safeguarding the public health and groundwater resources by requiring proper well construction and sealing methods.
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Provide financial assurance that the well will be completed, repaired, or abandoned correctly—even if the landowner fails to fulfill their obligations.
Who Needs This Bond?
You need this bond if:
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You are a private landowner in Oregon.
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You choose to construct, alter, or abandon a water well without hiring a licensed contractor (as allowed under specific conditions).
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You are required to submit proof of bonding to the OWRD as part of your permit or authorization process.
Bond Amount
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The standard bond amounts are $5,000 and $10,000, but the Oregon Water Resources Department may increase this amount depending on the project’s scope and potential impact.
Why The Bond Matters
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It holds landowners accountable for following Oregon’s tough water well rules.
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It protects the state’s groundwater resources and ensures safe drinking water practices.
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It gives the OWRD financial recourse if corrective actions are needed due to noncompliance.
To Obtain The Bond Through Swiftbonds
Access the Bond Application
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Visit the Swiftbonds Oregon Bond Applications and Forms page.
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Locate the “Oregon – Landowner’s Water Well Bond” section.
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Choose the appropriate bond Quote and Buy Now Link.
Complete the Bond Form
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Fill in the required information, including:
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Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
Submit the Application to Swiftbonds
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Contact Swiftbonds to submit your completed bond form
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Phone: (913) 214-8344
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Email: [email protected]
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Swiftbonds will guide you through any additional requirements and provide a quote for the bond premium.
Pay the Bond Premium
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After receiving your quote, pay the bond premium as instructed by Swiftbonds.
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Premium amounts can vary based on factors such as credit history and bond amount.
Receive and Submit the Bond
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Once payment is processed, Swiftbonds will issue the official bond certificate.
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Submit the bond certificate to the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) along with your Landowner’s Well Permit application.
Maintain Compliance
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The bond remains in effect until the well is properly constructed, altered, or abandoned in compliance with Oregon regulations.
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Ensure all work is completed according to state standards to avoid claims against the bond.
Conclusion
This bond ensures accountability, protects groundwater resources, and gives the state recourse if the landowner fails to complete the well properly. The bond remains in place until the well work is inspected and approved by the OWRD. It is a crucial part of the legal and regulatory framework that allows landowners to responsibly manage their own water sources while safeguarding public and environmental health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I drill my own water well in Oregon without a licensed contractor?
Yes, Oregon law allows property owners to drill, alter, or abandon their own wells under specific conditions. However, you must comply with all applicable Oregon Administrative Rules and obtain a Landowner’s Water Well Bond as a financial guarantee.
Is a permit also required?
Yes. In addition to the bond, you must apply for and receive a landowner’s well permit from the OWRD before beginning any well construction or alteration.
How long is the bond valid?
The bond is generally valid until the well is properly completed or abandoned and inspected by the OWRD. Once the work is approved, the bond can be released.
What happens if I fail to comply with state well standards?
If the well is not constructed or abandoned according to Oregon’s standards, the state can file a claim against your bond to cover the costs of corrective action. You will then be liable to reimburse the surety company for those expenses.
Can I use this bond for multiple wells?
No. A separate bond may be required for each individual well project, depending on the OWRD’s requirements.