Active Wells

Metering and Reporting

Requirements for Active Wells

De Minimis Wells are Exempt

Definition of De Minimis:

A de minimis well is defined as extraction of less than 2 acre-feet per year (AFY) for domestic purposes only.

Documentation and Compliance Forms for De Minimis Wells:

De minimis wells are exempt from the SABGSA’s metering and reporting requirements. Provided a well registration form is on file with the SABGSA, no further documentation is required.

Active Non-De Minimis Wells – Metering and Reporting Required

Definition of Active Non-de Minimis Wells:

An active non-de minimis well is defined as extraction of more than 2 acre-fee per year (AFY) and is subject to the SABGSA’s metering and reporting requirements outlined in Ordinance 25-001.

Documentation, Compliance Forms, and Deadlines for Active Wells:

Installation & Calibration Compliance Form
Submit Form by April 1, 2026

This form is to be used to demonstrate flow meter installation and calibration compliance for both new and existing meters.

Groundwater Extraction Reporting Form
Submit Form by November 1, 2026

Flow meters must be read and recorded/documented between the 1st and 5th day of each month beginning April 1, 2026. Reporting Period #1 is April 2026 – September 2026. Reporting Period #2 is October 2026 – March 2027.

Flow Meter Requirements – Install by April 1, 2026:

New and existing flow meters must meet the following requirements.

1. Flow meter must be capable of measuring the volume of groundwater extracted with an accuracy level of ±5%.

2. Flow meter must be equipped with either (a) a direct-reading rate of-flow indicator capable of showing instantaneous flow in gallons per minute or (b) a sweep hand indicator capable of determining the rate-of-flow by timing measurement.

3. Flow meter must be equipped with a visual volume-recording totalizer recorded in gallons, cubic feet, or acre-feet.

Flow Meter Installation, Calibration, Operation & Maintenance Requirements – Install by April 1, 2026:

1. The Flow Meter must be installed, operated, and maintained to the manufacturer’s specifications, instructions, and recommendations.

2. Prior to installation or by April 1, 2026 at latest, the Flow Meter must be calibrated to achieve an accuracy level of ±5% by volume of groundwater extracted.

3. The Flow Meter must be calibrated pursuant to the schedule described in the manufacturer’s specifications. If no such schedule exists, calibration must be performed at least once every five years.

4. If the verification error exceeds 5% upon calibration, then the Flow Meter must be recalibrated or replaced with a flow meter meeting the requirements of Ordinance 25-001.