What is necessary to drill a well for water on a 35-acre parcel of undeveloped land in Colorado?

To drill a well for water on a 35-acre parcel of undeveloped land in Colorado, obtaining a permit from the state engineer is essential. This requirement stems from Colorado's prior appropriation system of water rights, which regulates the use of surface and groundwater resources throughout the state.

The state engineer oversees the management of these resources, including the issuance of well permits to ensure that water extraction does not adversely affect existing water rights or local water supplies. Before a well is drilled, the prospective driller must submit an application that includes details about the proposed well's location, the intended use of the water, and how it will follow state regulations and water rights laws. This regulatory process helps maintain a sustainable balance in water use within the state.

Without the appropriate permit, drilling a well could lead to legal consequences and potential disputes over water rights, as well as detrimental impacts to the overall water supply in the area.