⚠️ Legal Notice: Pump System Work Requires an OWRB License in Oklahoma

Unlicensed Modification of Pump System Components Is a Violation of Oklahoma Law

Under Oklahoma law, any commercial installation, repair, modification, or replacement of water well pumps and pumping equipment must be performed only by an individual licensed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB). This includes work on:

  • Pressure switches
  • Plumbing between the pressure tank and the well/pump
  • Buried discharge lines
  • Pump controls, fittings, connectors, and sanitary seals

These components are legally classified as pumping equipment, and modifying or replacing them constitutes pump installation under state law.

1. Licensing Requirement (Oklahoma Statute)

Oklahoma Statutes Title 82, Section 1020.16 requires licensing for commercial pump installation:

“All persons engaged in the commercial installation of water well pumps in this state shall… become licensed with the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.” — 82 O.S. §1020.16(A)

This statute empowers OWRB to regulate pump installers, require testing, and enforce compliance with pump installation standards.

Meaning for consumers: If a person or company is paid to replace a pressure switch, modify pressure‑tank plumbing, or perform any pump‑related work, they must hold a valid OWRB pump installer license.

2. Minimum Standards for Pump Installation (Administrative Rule)

The OWRB’s Minimum Standards apply to all pump installations, including pressure system components:

“The minimum standards… apply to the installation of all water well pumps and pumping equipment, whether installed by a person having a valid license or by any other person.” — OAC 785:35‑9‑1(a)

The rules specifically regulate:

  • Discharge lines between the well and pressure tank
  • Pump controls and fittings
  • Sanitary seals and caps
  • Protection against contamination and improper installation

For example:

“A buried discharge line between the well casing and the pressure tank… shall not be under negative pressure at any time.” — OAC 785:35‑9‑3(c)

Meaning for consumers: Even if a homeowner performs their own work, the installation must still comply with OWRB minimum standards. If the work is commercial, the installer must also be licensed.

3. Penalties for Violations

OWRB rules establish penalties for both unlicensed commercial activity and violations of pump installation standards:

“Engaged in commercial activity without a license” — fine up to $1,000 for the first offense and up to $5,000 for subsequent offenses. — OAC 785:35‑1‑4(c)(1)

“Violation of pump installation minimum standard” — fine up to $1,000 for the first offense and up to $5,000 for subsequent offenses. — OAC 785:35‑1‑4(c)(2)

Additionally, violations may be prosecuted as misdemeanors under Title 82.

Meaning for consumers: Hiring an unlicensed person to replace a pressure switch or modify pressure‑tank plumbing exposes both the installer and the property owner to potential enforcement action.

4. Why This Warning Appears on Your Equipment

Pressure switches and pressure‑tank discharge plumbing are regulated pump system components. Modifying or replacing them is legally considered pump installation, which:

  • Must be performed by a licensed pump installer when done commercially
  • Must comply with OWRB minimum standards in all cases
  • Is subject to fines and enforcement if performed improperly or without a license

This warning exists to protect:

  • Groundwater quality
  • Well integrity
  • Homeowner safety
  • Compliance with Oklahoma law

If You Need Service

To ensure compliance with Oklahoma law, contact a licensed OWRB pump installer.

For assistance or questions about your system:

Ace Water Well Service 405‑664‑6388 Licensed • Insured • OWRB‑Compliant