Well on the plot — how far from the fence can you dig.

Against the backdrop of climate change and the growing demand for autonomous water supply in rural areas, more and more Ukrainians are deciding to arrange a well. However, many people do not know how far from the border with a neighbor it is permissible to dig it. A mistake in this can lead to conflicts and lawsuits.

The editorial team of Novyny.LIVE explains how many meters from the boundary of the plot it is allowed to dig a well, how to do this legally and safely.

What building and sanitary norms determine

The State sanitary norms and rules for the maintenance of territories of settlements are in effect, as well as DBN B.2.2-12:2019 and DSanPiN 2.2.4-171-10, which establish distances to sources of pollution and other recommendations regarding the placement of wells.

• sanitary distances to sources of pollution;
• the distance to the boundary of the plot;
• recommendations for the placement of the well relative to buildings and structures.

Main distances to adhere to

To avoid conflicts and maintain health, it is important to adhere to the following distances:

1. To the boundary with the neighboring plot — at least 5 meters.
2. To a residential building — at least 5 meters.
3. To agricultural buildings — at least 15 meters.
4. To a cesspit, septic tank — at least 50 meters.
5. To a compost heap — at least 15 meters.
6. To a cellar or basement — at least 7–10 meters.

Observing these requirements guarantees the safety of water and avoids problems with its quality.

Can you reduce the distance to the boundary?

In some cases, it is possible to shorten the distance to the boundary of the neighboring plot with written consent from the neighbor and conducting a hydrogeological assessment.

Without the neighbor's consent, it is better to avoid risks, as this may lead to lawsuits in the future.

How to avoid conflicts with neighbors

Preparing for the arrangement of a well is not only about legality but also about good neighborliness. Recommendations:

• notify the neighbor verbally and in writing;
• discuss the possibility of joint use of the well;
• do not build without a project.

Such measures will help avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.

What if the norms are violated

Violation of the rules can lead to:

1. Complaints to supervisory authorities;
2. Lawsuits to eliminate violations;
3. Fines of up to 1,700 UAH;
4. Loss of the right to water use.

In some communities, there have already been cases of well liquidation due to their improper placement.

What else should Ukrainians know

Before building a pond for fishing or a shed on the plot, it is important to study the legislation regarding this. This will help avoid problems with the relevant regulatory authorities and disputes with neighbors.

This article discusses the rules for placing a well on a plot, specifies the distances that should be adhered to in order to avoid conflicts with neighbors and violations of legislation. Adhering to established norms guarantees the safety of water and good neighborly coexistence. It also emphasizes the importance of adhering to agreements with neighbors and proper planning during construction to avoid potential legal issues in the future.