These rules govern the proper plugging of abandoned wells. Some examples of types of wells covered by these rules are those accessing groundwater (withdrawing water from or injecting water into the groundwater) and can include, but are not limited to: public and nonpublic water wells, test wells, observation wells, monitoring wells, agricultural drainage wells, heat pump recirculation wells, and cooling water wells. Some examples of types of wells or subsurface structures not covered by these rules include: small diameter (2" or less) test holes, observation wells or monitoring wells installed for a limited time which can be sealed by withdrawal of the casing and allowing the hole to collapse; soil borings; septic tanks; underground storage tanks; and cisterns if not used for accessing groundwater. For additional guidance and background information, refer to "Guidelines for Plugging Abandoned Water Wells," Technical Information Series 15, Geological Survey Bureau, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, 1987.
Iowa Admin. Code r. 567-39.2