DNREC Well Viewer Guide

The Well Viewer is DNREC's public map tool for searching well permit and construction records across Delaware.

Private wells

Short answer: Open the Well Viewer, zoom to your property or search by address, and click on any mapped well point to see available permit details. Treat missing or sparse data as a normal limitation, not a red flag.

Step-by-step

  1. Open the DNREC Well Viewer in a desktop browser for the clearest map interaction.
  2. Zoom to your property using an address search or by navigating the map manually.
  3. Click on any well points shown near your property to open available record details.
  4. Note the permit number, approximate depth, and construction date if shown.
  5. Use this information alongside, not instead of, a physical well inspection when making decisions about a property.

Search limitations

The Well Viewer reflects DNREC's available digital records. Older wells, especially those constructed before digital recordkeeping, may be missing or imprecisely located. A record's absence does not mean the well is unpermitted, and a mapped location is approximate, not a survey-grade boundary.

Common mistakes

  • Treating the mapped well location as a precise property survey
  • Assuming no record means no permit was ever issued
  • Using the tool as a substitute for a professional well inspection

When to contact DNREC

Contact DNREC directly if you need an official interpretation of a record, believe a record is inaccurate, or are researching a new well construction or use permit.

Official sources

  • DNREC Well Viewer
  • DNREC Well Permits

Related

Does the Well Viewer show water-quality data?

No. The Well Viewer shows permit and construction records, not water-quality test results. For water quality, you need to test your well through DPH resources or a certified laboratory.

This page provides general educational information and is not legal or regulatory advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-11. Report a correction.

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