2025 Session Last amended: 2017 session

§ 103I.715 — Criminal Penalties

Plain-Language Summary

Violating any provision of chapter 103I (well and boring contractor laws) is a misdemeanor. Willfully violating the chapter, doing well drilling or sealing work without a license, or doing exploratory boring without an explorer's license is a gross misdemeanor — a more serious offense. Prosecutions must be handled by the county attorney in the county where the violation occurred.

Practical Notes
The difference between a misdemeanor and a gross misdemeanor matters: a gross misdemeanor carries a potential sentence of up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine, compared to 90 days and $1,000 for a misdemeanor. Contractors who drill or seal wells without a license face gross misdemeanor charges, not just civil fines. The county attorney in the county where the illegal work happened has jurisdiction to prosecute.