Are you buying a property in Portugal or already own one with a borehole (poço or furo)? Understanding how private water supply systems work—and how they’re regulated—is essential. Boreholes are a common and often cost-effective solution for water access in rural and suburban areas of Portugal. But what are the legal requirements? Can you drink the water? Is it worth it?
This guide covers everything you need to know about boreholes in Portugal, from licensing and water quality to costs, pros and cons, and tax obligations like the Taxa de Recursos Hídricos (TRH).
A borehole (called a furo or poço in Portuguese) is a deep, narrow well drilled into the ground to extract groundwater. It's commonly used in rural properties and farms in Portugal as a source of water for irrigation, livestock, domestic use, and even swimming pools.
- Free water: After installation, you avoid ongoing utility bills for water usage.
- Ideal for gardens, pools and agriculture: Great for irrigation systems, pools or farms where water use is high.
- Self-sufficiency: Reduces dependency on municipal water networks, especially in remote areas.
- Adds value to rural properties: Especially in areas where public supply is unavailable or unreliable.
- Installation cost: Drilling a borehole can cost between €10,000–€15,000 depending on depth, geology, and equipment.
- Water quality: Groundwater is not automatically safe for drinking—testing is necessary to understand the quality of the water and treatment (through installing a filter for example) might be necessary to make the water available for drinking.
- Legal requirements: Boreholes must be licensed and registered with the Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente (APA).
- Annual obligations: You may be liable to pay the Water Resources Tax (TRH) and submit annual declarations.
Yes. Whether you are installing a new borehole or purchasing a property with an existing one, it must be registered and licensed with the APA (Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente).
Licensing Process when a new borehole needs to be installed:
Licensing Process when you purchase a property with a borehole:
That depends. While many boreholes in Portugal provide clean water, it is not guaranteed to be potable without testing and treatment.
What you should do:
- Conduct a water analysis: Especially for bacteria, nitrates, heavy metals, and chemical contamination.
- Install a filtration system or UV treatment if you intend to drink the water.
- Use mains water for drinking if in doubt, and borehole water for irrigation and cleaning.
The TRH is the Water Resources Tax paid to the state for the use of public water resources, including groundwater from boreholes.
You must pay TRH if:
- You extract large volumes of water (even for domestic use).
- The borehole is used commercially (e.g., for agriculture, tourism, or rentals).
- You're in an environmentally sensitive zone.
- You discharge water into the ground or watercourses (e.g., greywater return).
You are exempt from TRH if:
- You use the borehole only for small-scale, private domestic use (e.g., garden or personal pool).
- The usage falls below the APA's minimum thresholds—but you still must register the borehole.
📅 Users must submit an annual declaration to the APA, even if no tax is due.
If you’re considering buying a home in Portugal with a borehole:
- Confirm that the borehole is licensed and properly registered.
- Request a copy of the borehole license and any water quality tests.
- Ask if the TRH has been paid or declared in previous years.
- Ensure the license will be transferred to your name after purchase.
In urban and suburban areas, mains water (public water supply) is often the norm. However, boreholes are a great supplement or backup, especially during drought periods or if your property is off-grid.
Some property owners combine both systems: using borehole water for irrigation and mains water for drinking and domestic use.
A borehole can be a valuable and is definitely a sustainable asset in Portugal, offering water independence and reducing utility costs—but only if it's legal, tested, and well maintained. Be sure to understand the licensing and tax obligations before buying or installing one.
Whether you're a property buyer exploring options in the countryside or a current homeowner looking to improve your water system, taking the time to understand borehole regulations in Portugal will help you make informed and compliant decisions.
1. Can I drill a borehole on my land in Portugal?
Yes, but you must follow APA procedures, including pre-notification and licensing.
2. Can I drink borehole water?
Only after proper testing and, sometimes needed, treatment.
3. What happens if I don’t register my borehole?
Unregistered boreholes can result in fines and legal complications, especially during property transactions.
4. How deep are boreholes in Portugal?
Typically 40 to 120 meters, depending on geology and water table levels.
5. Who can help me install or legalize a borehole?
Licensed borehole drilling companies usually assist with paperwork. A lawyer or real estate agent can also guide you during property purchases.
At Divine Home, we help buyers navigate every step of the journey—from water access to licensing and legal checks. Whether you’re looking for a countryside villa with a borehole or a beach apartment on mains water, we’re here to guide you.
Contact us today for personalized support.
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