Before constructing or using a private water well, it is necessary to understand the applicable administrative procedures. Having a well located on private property does not mean that it can be drilled or used without prior authorisation or notification.

In Catalonia’s internal river basins, the Catalan Water Agency —ACA— is the authority responsible for authorising private water use and registering it in the Water Register. The procedure mainly depends on the annual volume, the location of the well and where the water will be used.

Wells with annual consumption below 7,000 m³

When the planned extraction is less than 7,000 m³ per year and the water is used on the same property where the abstraction point is located, it must normally be processed as a groundwater abstraction.

However, prior administrative authorisation may be required when the well is located:

• Within a protected groundwater body.
• Within a watercourse protection zone.
• Less than 100 metres from a river, stream or watercourse.
• Within an area subject to specific restrictions.

The ACA provides an online map viewer that allows users to check which procedure applies according to the coordinates of the proposed well.

When is a concession required?

A concession must be obtained when:

• The extraction exceeds 7,000 m³ per year.
• The water is used on a property different from the one where the well is located.
• The characteristics of the water use require it.

The concession regulates the authorised volume, the use of the water and the operating conditions of the abstraction point.

What happens with older wells?

In the case of an older well, it is advisable to check whether it is registered in the Water Register and whether its characteristics match its current use. Changes in ownership, flow rate, use or operating conditions may require an amendment or transfer of the water right.

It is not advisable to use a well without knowing its administrative status, as the ACA may impose penalties for water uses that fail to comply with current regulations.

Regulation of private wells in Barcelona and Catalonia

Each project must be assessed individually. The location, proximity to other wells, expected volume and intended use of the water may affect the applicable procedure.

At Perforacions i Bombes Barcelona, we assess the technical characteristics of each project and carry out well drilling work in Barcelona and in different municipalities across Catalonia.