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Well Drilling (SENARA)

Well drilling for groundwater extraction or exploration in Costa Rica requires the binding technical opinion from SENARA (National Service of Subterranean Waters, Irrigation and Drainage), according to the Regulation for the Drilling and Exploration of Groundwater (Decree No. 43053-MINAE). This evaluation ensures that the work does not affect aquifers or recharge zones, guaranteeing a sustainable use of groundwater resources.

When is SENARA’s technical opinion required?

Any project involving subsurface drilling to capture groundwater must obtain prior approval from SENARA. This criterion is requested by the Water Directorate (MINAE) before the drilling permit is issued.

  • Wells for agricultural, industrial, or commercial purposes.
  • Residential or urban projects with private water systems.
  • Studies for water concessions or sewerage exemptions.
  • Drilling in recharge or coastal zones, or in vulnerable aquifers.

Domestic wells for exclusive household use within the same property may be registered directly with the Water Directorate, but still must respect SENARA’s hydrogeological restrictions.

Requirements according to the Drilling Regulation

The official regulation (Decree No. 43053-MINAE) establishes that drilling must be supervised by a qualified professional and include a technical well report with the following details:

  • Lithological description and total drilling depth.
  • Static and dynamic water levels and quality analysis.
  • Pumping test results and transmissivity estimation.
  • Exact coordinates and cartographic location of the well.

SENARA uses this information to verify groundwater sustainability and to ensure proper protection of the aquifer in the project area.

How does Geo Costa Rica support this process?

At Geo Costa Rica we provide comprehensive technical assistance for well drilling projects, in compliance with SENARA and Water Directorate requirements. We guide the entire process, from preliminary analysis to final technical reporting.

1. Preliminary assessment

We evaluate the hydrogeological feasibility and restriction level of the site.

2. Technical supervision

Field supervision, lithological logging, and groundwater level measurement.

3. Final report

We prepare the official technical report for submission to SENARA and the Water Directorate.

Need to process your well drilling permit with SENARA?

At Geo Costa Rica we handle the complete technical and administrative process to ensure regulatory compliance and project approval. Our team specializes in hydrogeology, drilling supervision, and environmental permitting.

Request technical assistance

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