What permits are needed to drill a well in California?
Usually, two permits are needed to drill a well in California. You need a use permit from the local agency such as the city or county, and you need a drilling permit from the Division. In many counties, most wells drilled in existing oil or gas fields do not need a local-agency permit, so only a Division permit is required. In other counties, use permits are required and can be obtained from the planning department.
