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Well Drilling Cost in Colorado

Colorado well drilling is heavily regulated and often expensive — particularly on the Front Range where water rights are complex and depths can be extreme. Rural eastern Colorado plains have deeper but more accessible aquifers.

Average Total Cost
$10,000 – $25,000
Cost Per Foot
$30 – $70
Average Depth
200 – 600 ft
Regulator
Colorado DWR
Colorado Well Cost by Region
Front Range foothills (Denver, Boulder exurbs): Crystalline rock, 200–500 feet, $40–$70/ft. Colorado Plains (eastern CO): Denver Basin aquifer, 200–600 feet, $30–$55/ft. Mountain communities: Variable — some areas have shallow bedrock springs at 100 feet, others require 400+ feet at high cost. Western Slope (Grand Junction area): Varies, 150–400 feet.
Colorado Water Rights
Colorado's Prior Appropriation water law is complex. A well permit from Colorado DWR is required before drilling. Exempt wells (household use under 1 acre-foot/year) are permitted for residential use on 35+ acre parcels in most areas. Smaller parcels may face restrictions. Designated Basins on the eastern plains have additional rules.
Common Questions
Colorado residential wells are among the most expensive in the country — typically $10,000–$25,000+ installed. Greater depth, hard rock, remote locations, and complex permitting all contribute to higher costs.
Residential exempt wells are permitted under an exemption — you don't need a separate water right for household use (typically under 1 acre-foot per year). However, the permit must be obtained from Colorado DWR before drilling. The exemption has acreage and use restrictions.
DWR typically processes exempt residential well permits in 2–6 weeks. More complex permits for irrigation or commercial use can take months. Apply early — you cannot drill without the permit in hand.
Related Topics
Cost by State
Well Drilling Cost in New Mexico
Cost by State
Well Drilling Cost in Arizona
Technical Reference
Average Water Well Depth by State
Important: Well drilling costs, depths, and regulations vary significantly within each state. This page provides general reference information only. Always get quotes from multiple licensed well contractors in your area and verify current state regulations before proceeding.