Yes and no...it depends on where you are planning to drill the well:
County and Subdivisions
Most homes in the County, whether in a subdivision or not, are on private wells. If you are planning to build or develop land in these areas you do not need a permit to drill a well as long as the use is less than 35 gallons per minute or less than 10 acre-feet per year. This same rule applies if you are drilling an additional well on already developed property. Contact a local well driller to make an appointment. There are a number of well drillers listed in the yellow pages of the phone book.
However, if the property you plan to build on is in an area or subdivision that has a community water system, you will be required to connect to that system. It is a good idea to check with your contractor and/or homeowners association covenants for any specific rules pertaining to water wells in your area or subdivision.
Controlled Ground Water Area (CGWA)
If your property is located within a CGWA, you will need to apply for a permit from the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) to drill a well. There are three CGWAs located within the Gallatin Local Water Quality District:
Bozeman Solvent Site Controlled Ground Water Area
Idaho Pole Company Site Controlled Ground Water Area
Sypes Canyon Temporary Controlled Ground Water Area
The Department of Natural Resources & Conservation (DNRC) is located at 151 Evergreen, Suite C, Bozeman, MT 59715. Contact Scott Compton, DNRC Bozeman Office, at 586-3136 to find out more information on the permit fee, process and specific requirements for the controlled ground water area.
City of Belgrade
All residents and businesses within city limits are required to hook up to the City's municipal water supply.
City of Bozeman
You can drill a well within the City limits for irrigation purposes only. The well cannot be connected to your household water distribution system. Under no circumstances can the well be used to supplement or replace water supplied by the City of Bozeman. Contact the City of Bozeman Water Department at 582-3200 for more information, instructions and to schedule an inspection.
Town of Manhattan
All residents and businesses within city limits are required to hook up to the town's municipal water supply.
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