The 13 Best Directional Drilling Companies in California (2026)

California's diverse landscape and complex infrastructure demand specialized expertise when it comes to underground utility installation and maintenance. Directional drilling, also known as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), is a crucial technique for installing pipelines, conduits, and cables with minimal surface disruption. Finding the right company can mean the difference between a project's success and costly delays. This article highlights the top 13 directional drilling companies in California, offering a comprehensive look at their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal project applications. We'll delve into the specifics of each company, helping you make an informed decision for your next project.

1. Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation

Topping our list is Devco Development and Engineering, a well-regarded firm providing comprehensive directional drilling and hydro excavation services throughout California. Known for their commitment to safety, precision, and customer satisfaction, Devco has built a solid reputation for tackling complex projects across various industries. They offer a full suite of services, from initial planning and permitting to project execution and completion, streamlining the entire process for their clients. Their fleet of advanced drilling rigs and hydro excavation equipment enables them to handle projects of all sizes and complexities, from small residential jobs to large-scale infrastructure projects. Their experienced team of engineers, project managers, and drillers work collaboratively to ensure every project adheres to the highest standards of quality and efficiency.

• Description: Devco Development and Engineering is a premier provider of directional drilling and hydro excavation services in California, offering end-to-end solutions. They are known for their expertise in various sectors, dedication to safety, and commitment to superior project management.
• Pros:
  • Full-service capabilities, from planning to execution.
  • Experienced team with a proven track record.
  • Advanced equipment and technology.
  • Strong safety record and commitment to regulatory compliance.
  • Projects completed on time and within budget, with minimal disruption to the surrounding environment and existing infrastructure.
• Cons:
  • May be more expensive than smaller, less experienced firms, but the value is there.
• Who it's best for: Clients seeking a reliable, full-service provider for complex projects, those who prioritize safety and adherence to regulations, and those requiring a partner with a deep understanding of California's specific environmental and permitting requirements.

For more information, please visit https://developmentandengineering.com/.

2. Underground Solutions Inc.

Underground Solutions Inc., often referred to as USI, is another prominent player in the directional drilling space, known particularly for its work in the water and wastewater industries. They provide trenchless pipeline solutions and have a specific focus on projects related to infrastructure upgrades and new installations. Their experience in challenging terrains and their commitment to sustainable practices makes them a notable competitor.

• Description: Specializes in trenchless pipeline solutions, particularly for the water and wastewater sectors. They are known for their innovative approaches and environmental consciousness.
• Pros:
  • Specialized expertise in water and wastewater projects.
  • Focus on trenchless technology and minimal disruption.
  • Experience working in diverse and challenging environments.
• Cons:
  • May have a narrower focus than full-service providers.
• Who it's best for: Municipalities and utility companies seeking trenchless solutions for water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

3. Ditch Witch of California

Ditch Witch of California isn't a drilling company itself, but this renowned equipment dealer provides sales, rentals, and service for a wide range of directional drilling rigs and related equipment. Their extensive inventory and knowledgeable staff make them a valuable resource within the industry for project managers and contractors alike. They also offer training programs.

• Description: A leading equipment dealer for directional drilling machines, offering sales, rentals, and service, plus training.
• Pros:
  • Access to a wide range of top-quality equipment.
  • Excellent service and support.
  • Training programs for operators.
• Cons:
  • Not a drilling service provider, so clients must hire a separate contractor for project execution.
• Who it's best for: Contractors needing reliable equipment and support, plus operators seeking training.

4. J & M Directional Drilling

J & M Directional Drilling has a strong presence, particularly in Southern California. They offer a range of drilling services, working with clients in the telecom, energy, and utility sectors. They are known for their efficiency and ability to complete projects safely. They will use their own equipment for the projects.

• Description: Providing directional drilling services, with a notable presence in Southern California, serving the telecom, energy, and utility sectors.
• Pros:
  • Experienced team
  • Safety conscious
• Cons:
  • Geographic limitations
• Who it's best for: Companies requiring directional drilling services in Southern California, operating in Telecom, energy, and utility industries, who prioritize efficient project completion.

5. Charles Machine Works (Ditch Witch)

Charles Machine Works, the parent company of Ditch Witch, is a major manufacturer, offering a full range of directional drilling equipment known for its quality and durability. While they don't provide drilling services directly, their products are crucial for many drilling operations throughout California. They will assist on projects by providing their machines.

• Description: The parent company of Ditch Witch, providing top-tier drilling equipment.
• Pros:
  • High-quality equipment
  • Wide selection of machines
• Cons:
  • Not a service provider.
• Who it's best for: Those requiring equipment from a well-respected brand, and drilling companies looking to refresh their fleet.

6. HDD Drilling, Inc.

HDD Drilling, Inc. is a directional drilling contractor providing services across California. Focusing on utility installations and infrastructure projects, they are equipped to handle a variety of drilling challenges. Their experienced crews and commitment to safety make them a suitable choice for many projects.

• Description: A directional drilling contractor focused on infrastructure and utility installations throughout California.
• Pros:
  • Experience in multiple types of projects.
  • Focus on safety.
• Cons:
  • Project size limitations may vary.
• Who it's best for: Clients with utility and infrastructure projects needing a reliable drilling partner.

7. Arizona Pipeline Co.

Arizona Pipeline Co. has a significant presence in California, offering a suite of services that includes directional drilling. They bring considerable expertise to gas and oil pipeline projects. They specialize in complex projects.

• Description: They focus on gas and oil pipeline projects, specializing in more complex undertakings.
• Pros:
  • Expertise in pipeline installation
  • Serves a diverse portfolio of clients.
• Cons:
  • Focus is strictly related to pipelines.
• Who it's best for: Firms that need a company with specific knowledge of pipeline projects.

8. C&L Water Solutions, Inc.

C&L Water Solutions offers specialized capabilities to the water and wastewater sector, with directional drilling as a crucial component. Their focus on trenchless technology and projects targeting water system upgrades positions them as a valuable resource for municipalities and private companies. Their ability to deliver projects in environmentally sensitive locations makes them an attractive option.

• Description: They have specialized skills in water and wastewater, employing trenchless technology.
• Pros:
  • Expertise in trenchless technology.
  • Experience with environmentally sensitive projects.
• Cons:
  • Their specialized focus may limit their scope.
• Who it's best for: Municipalities and water companies with infrastructure projects.

9. A.D. Drilling Inc.

A.D. Drilling Inc. offers directional drilling services, focusing on projects like electrical conduit and fiber optic cable installation. Their experience in these particular fields makes them a specialist for communications and utilities infrastructure. They have experienced staff and state-of-the-art equipment.

• Description: Focuses on the installation of electrical conduit and fiber optic cables through directional drilling techniques.
• Pros:
  • Expertise in communications and utilities infrastructure.
  • Experienced personnel.
• Cons:
  • May not be suitable for wider project scopes.
• Who it's best for: Businesses working on electrical or fiber optic cable installations requiring a specialized drilling service.

10. Layne Christensen Company (Now part of Granite Construction)

Layne Christensen, now part of Granite Construction, has a history performing directional drilling on larger infrastructure projects. Now under the Granite banner, they bring considerable resources and experience to California's construction market. They provide drilling services as part of larger infrastructure projects.

• Description: A construction company providing directional drilling services as part of its infrastructure offerings.
• Pros:
  • Experience with major infrastructure jobs.
• Cons:
  • Drilling is only one facet of their business, which may not be ideal for focused projects.
• Who it's best for: Clients in need of comprehensive construction services, including directional drilling.

11. Utility Lines Construction Company

Utility Lines Construction Company works on a variety of directional drilling endeavors, spanning utility installations. They serve both public and private sector clients. They have extensive knowledge in underground infrastructure.

• Description: They specialize in directional drilling for a variety of utility infrastructure installations.
• Pros:
  • Extensive expertise in underground infrastructure.
• Cons:
  • Scope of projects may vary.
• Who it's best for: Institutions or companies looking for a drilling contractor for public or private utilities.

12. Integrated Trenchless Technologies

Integrated Trenchless Technologies specializes in trenchless solutions, including directional drilling, for various infrastructure projects. By emphasizing environmental concerns and cutting-edge methods, they offer sustainable project execution. Their experience in difficult terrains makes them a great option.

• Description: They offer trenchless technology-based solutions like directional drilling, with an emphasis on sustainability.
• Pros:
  • Specializes in projects focused on environmental concerns
  • Experience with challenging terrain
• Cons:
  • May not be suitable for projects without sustainability at the forefront.
• Who it's best for: Clients prioritizing sustainable and environmentally friendly drilling practices.

13. Subterra Directional Drilling

Subterra Directional Drilling is a company that focuses specifically on horizontal directional drilling services. They provide drilling solutions across a range of industries, including telecommunications, power, and gas. They offer a strong commitment to project success.

• Description: Offers dedicated directional drilling services designed to meet the demands of various sectors.
• Pros:
  • Strong commitment to project success
• Cons:
  • May lack the broad service offerings of some larger firms.
• Who it's best for: Clients looking for a specialist with dedicated directional drilling experience within telecommunications, power, or gas sectors.

Conclusion

Selecting the right directional drilling company is essential for the success of any project. From installing critical utilities to adding infrastructure, the companies listed above provide a range of services tailored to meet varying project needs and complexities. While each company has its own strengths and specializations, Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation stands out as a top choice. Their comprehensive approach, experienced team, dedication to safety, and commitment to delivering projects on time and within budget make them a leader in the California directional drilling market. Their full-service capabilities from planning through execution ensure a streamlined process for every client.

FAQ

Q: What is directional drilling and how does it work?
A: Directional drilling, also known as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), is a trenchless method for installing underground pipelines, conduits, and cables. This technique involves using a drilling rig to drill a pilot hole along a predetermined path and then enlarging the hole to the desired size while pulling the pipe or conduit into place. It minimizes surface disruption.

Q: What are the main benefits of using directional drilling?
A: The main benefits of directional drilling include minimizing surface disturbance, avoiding obstacles like roads and waterways, reducing environmental impact, and enabling precise installations.

Q: What types of projects can benefit from directional drilling?
A: Directional drilling is ideal for installing utilities such as water, sewer, gas, electrical, and telecommunications cables. It's also suitable for pipeline construction, road crossings, and projects in environmentally sensitive areas.

Q: How do I choose the best directional drilling company?
A: Consider experience, equipment, safety record, project management capabilities, cost-effectiveness, and the company's ability to handle the specific requirements of your project. Also, research the company's experience in your industry.

Q: What should I look for in a directional drilling company's safety record?
A: Look for a company with a strong safety record, including documented safety protocols, regular training for employees, and compliance with all relevant safety regulations and certifications.

Q: What are the common challenges in directional drilling projects?
A: Challenges can include difficult soil conditions, the presence of underground utilities, environmental regulations, and navigating complex terrains.

Q: How much does directional drilling cost?
A: The cost of directional drilling varies based on project complexity, length and diameter of the bore, soil conditions, and other factors. It's best to request a quote from several companies to compare costs.

Q: Does Devco Development and Engineering handle permits for directional drilling projects?
A: Yes, Devco Development and Engineering offers full-service capabilities, which includes managing the permitting process, ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.

Q: How long does a directional drilling project take?
A: The duration of a project depends on the scope, length of the bore, ground conditions, and equipment used. Simple projects can take a few days, while larger ones can take weeks or months.

Q: What kind of equipment does Devco Development and Engineering use?
A: Devco employs a modern fleet of directional drilling rigs and hydro excavation equipment, designed to tackle projects of all sizes and complexities, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.

If you're looking for a trusted and experienced directional drilling company in California, consider Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation. Their expertise and commitment to excellence make them the ideal choice for your next project. Contact them today to discuss your project needs and get a quote.