Drywell

A drywell is an underground structure designed to collect and disperse stormwater runoff, helping prevent flooding and erosion around your property. These systems work quietly beneath the surface, managing excess water from gutters, driveways, and low-lying areas. Whether you're dealing with drainage issues or planning a new installation, Angi connects you with local pros and resources to keep your yard dry and healthy.

Related to Drywell Service

Drywell Service Articles and Advice
Jamie Cattanach  •  Apr 9, 2026
What Is a Dry Well? How They Work and When to Install One
What is a dry well? It’s not (always) a well that’s run dry. Dry wells help drain away excess stormwater to avoid excess drainage and flooding.
Paige Bennett  •  Mar 6, 2026
How Much Does a Dry Well Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
Dry wells are handy for anyone who’s experiencing drainage problems. But dry well installation costs can vary depending on its size, location, and volume.
Amy Freeman  •  Feb 19, 2026
What's the Difference Between a Septic Dry Well vs. a Leach Field?
In rural areas, the type of septic system you choose makes a difference. Learn more about a septic dry well versus a leach field to see which one is right for you.
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Common Drywell Service Questions

A dry well should be at least 10 feet from a house or other structure and at least 3 feet away from a property line. The reason a dry well needs to be far from homes and structures is that the water needs space to seep into the soil. If the dry well is too close to something, that water could damage the foundation or other building materials. Always check local building codes to determine exact distance requirements for your dry well.

A dry well is a concrete or plastic container in a hole in the ground that collects excess rainwater and lets it slowly soak into the surrounding soil. It can range from a simple gravel pit to an elaborate stormwater drainage system. To collect the rainwater, there are downspouts on the house that carry the water away from the roof, then release it into the dry well.

A well-maintained dry well can last as long as 30 years, but achieving this lifespan requires regular maintenance. Be sure to inspect and deep clean the well at least once per year to prevent it from getting clogged with sediment and debris. To minimize buildup, clear away grass clippings, leaves, and twigs from the top of the well. It's also wise to check your dry well after every storm and on a monthly basis to ensure it’s functioning correctly. A key sign of a problem is standing water. If you notice this or anything else seems amiss, you should call a pro. Even if you perform annual DIY cleaning and inspections, it's recommended to hire a professional to inspect the dry well every two to three years.

While dry wells can be effective for managing rainwater, they have several disadvantages. They can become clogged with sediment, especially after large storms, which reduces their effectiveness and can be difficult to clean. Dry wells are also not suitable for all soil types; they will not function properly in soil with low permeability. Additionally, if a dry well is not large enough to handle the amount of rainfall in your area, it can overflow. For gravity-flow models, the water may disperse very slowly, depending on the well's depth and the soil's permeability.