How Much Does a Dry Well Installation Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Understanding the dry well installation cost is crucial when planning your project. Most homeowners spend between $1,344 and $5,167 on dry well installation, with a national average of $3,126, depending on materials, complexity, and permits required. Smaller projects can cost $200, while larger, more complex installations might reach up to $10,300, depending on your specific needs. By planning ahead and hiring a professional, you can ensure a successful installation without unexpected expenses.

What Is a Dry Well?

A dry well, or “seepage pit,” is a structure dug underground to take in rain and other water and prevent flooding. After reaching the well, the excess water joins the groundwater supply. Dry wells can be as simple as a deep hole filled with gravel or as complex as a heavy, prefabricated concrete well.

Dry Well Installation Cost Factors

Dry wells offer several benefits for your property. One advantage is that you don't need to worry about clogging. Unlike French drains, a professional can install a dry well even after your home is built. Dry wells also divert water away from walkways, helping to prevent dangerous ice slicks in colder weather. They reduce erosion and remove excess surface water from your soil.

Permits

Your local municipality might require you to have a permit before beginning construction. Dry well permits cost between $25 and $50, which is considerably less than the cost of a standard building permit. Some contractors include permit acquisition in their installation costs and handle the process for you.

Soil Testing

You may need a percolation test when you install your dry well. A percolation test costs between $670 and $2,200 and checks how well your soil absorbs water. This test is performed before installing a dry well to ensure it's a good drainage option for your property.

Lawn Repairs

Your lawn may need some restoration after installing a dry well on your property. Installing a dry well often requires digging up parts of your lawn. After installation, you might need to re-seed the affected areas. Seeding a lawn costs an average of $0.10 to $0.20 per square foot.

Other Drainage System Options

A French drain is another type of yard drainage system that often costs more than a dry well. While they're sometimes confused, French drains and dry wells are quite different in appearance and operation. French drain systems are typically installed during a home's construction, usually before the foundation is poured. They feature small perforations that allow water to flow through while keeping debris out. Unlike dry wells, French drains can become easily clogged over time.

Dry Well Installation Cost by Material

Your dry well costs will vary depending on the materials you choose. Here’s an overview of the prices of different options:

Gravel

Gravel is the most budget-friendly dry well material, costing between $50 and $250 to install. For instance, pea gravel costs an average of $15 to $75 per cubic yard. A professional will dig a hole in your yard, line it with porous landscape fabric, and fill it with loose rocks or gravel. When it rains, water flows down through the rocks and soaks into the ground.

Plastic

Plastic dry wells cost between $90 and $650 to install, with larger sizes increasing the price. These prefabricated basins can hold several gallons of water, and their perforations allow water to drain into the ground. A pro will dig a hole, place the plastic well inside, and may connect it to your existing drainage system using pipes. If you want to add a drain and grate, plan to add $300 to your project cost.

Concrete

Concrete dry wells are the most expensive option, costing between $300 and $4,500 or more. These heavy-duty basins can hold 500 to 1,000 gallons of water and have perforations that allow water to flow into the ground. A pro will dig into the ground and install the concrete well, possibly connecting it to your existing drainage system for maximum efficiency.

DIY or Hiring a Dry Well Pro

While it's possible to install a dry well yourself, there are many potential pitfalls. You may need a permit, and your local municipality might not approve a DIY installation. Additionally, an incorrect installation can cause water damage to your home's foundation. To avoid these risks, hire a local landscape contractor or drainage professional. A trained and experienced pro will know the correct placement and ensure your dry well is installed safely and effectively.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.