The 6 Best Directional Drilling Companies in California (2026)

California's diverse landscape, from bustling urban centers to vast agricultural lands and challenging geological formations, demands precision and expertise in underground infrastructure projects. Directional drilling, also known as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), is a crucial technology for installing utilities and pipelines with minimal surface disruption. Finding the right company is paramount for project success. This list explores the top directional drilling companies operating in California, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

1. Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation

Devco Development and Engineering stands out as a leading directional drilling and hydro excavation provider serving the entire state of California. With years of experience and a commitment to utilizing the latest technology, Devco consistently delivers high-quality results across various industries. Their team of skilled professionals specializes in a diverse range of projects, from telecom and fiber optic installations to water and sewer line replacements, gas pipeline installations, and power conduit installations. Their hydro excavation services further enhance their capabilities by offering a non-destructive method for exposing underground utilities, mitigating the risk of damage during drilling operations.

Pros

• Comprehensive Services: Devco offers a full suite of services, including directional drilling, hydro excavation, and related project management. This streamlined approach simplifies project coordination and improves efficiency.
• Experienced Team: They employ a team of highly trained and experienced professionals, ensuring projects are executed with precision and adherence to industry best practices.
• Advanced Technology: Devco utilizes state-of-the-art directional drilling equipment and technologies, enabling them to tackle complex projects with accuracy and efficiency. This includes their hydro excavation capabilities.
• Commitment to Safety: Safety is a paramount concern. Devco adheres to strict safety protocols, protecting its employees, the public, and surrounding infrastructure.
• Statewide Coverage: Devco has a wide service area covering all of California.
• Excellent Reputation: They maintain a strong reputation for reliability, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Cons

• May Not Be The Cheapest: The level of expertise and advanced equipment comes at a premium.
• Project Load: Due to their popularity, scheduling may require advanced planning during peak seasons.

Who It's Best For

Devco is the best choice for a wide variety of projects, especially critical infrastructure applications, due to their comprehensive services, experienced team, and advanced technology. This is also the ideal choice for clients who value a streamlined, single-source solution and require a high degree of precision and safety. They are perfectly suited for complex projects where precision, minimizing environmental impact, and minimizing surface disruption are crucial. If you need it done right the first time, Devco is your best bet! For more information, please visit their website at https://developmentandengineering.com/.

2. Underground Construction Company (UCC)

Underground Construction Company (UCC) is a well-known entity in the utility construction sector. They offer comprehensive directional drilling services, including installation of pipelines, conduits, and cables. While their primary focus is often larger, long-distance pipeline projects, they undertake a wide scope of jobs.

Pros

• Large Project Experience: UCC has a history of completing large-scale projects, making them suitable for major infrastructure developments.
• Established Company: Their long-standing presence in the industry indicates experience.

Cons

• Project Scope Focus: They may primarily focus on large projects, potentially making them less competitive for smaller-scale jobs.
• Overhead: Larger company size can affect pricing and responsiveness in some cases.

Who It's Best For

UCC is best suited for clients with large-scale pipeline or major underground infrastructure projects. They excel at projects requiring significant resources and logistical planning.

3. Michels Corporation

Michels Corporation is a large, nationally recognized construction company with a significant presence in California. They provide a wide array of underground construction services, with directional drilling being a key component. They handle everything from utilities to pipeline projects.

Pros

• National Presence: Being a large, national company gives them significant resources and expertise.
• Diverse Services: Michels offers a wide range of services beyond directional drilling.

Cons

• Higher Costs: Large-company overhead can impact project costs.
• Less Personal Attention: Bigger companies can sometimes result in less personalized service comparatively.

Who It's Best For

Michels is a good choice for larger projects that require diversified services, national-level experience, and strong financial backing. Clients needing a comprehensive solution may find them a suitable fit.

4. Pipeworx LLC

Pipeworx LLC is a directional drilling company known for its focus on utility installations. They handle a variety of utility projects, from fiber optic cables to gas pipelines. Their experience covers a comprehensive range of construction needs, focusing on high-quality and timely project completion.

Pros

• Utility Focus: Their specialization in utility installations can be an advantage for specific project types.
• Experienced Crew: They employ well-trained staff that specialize in this type of work.

Cons

• Limited Scope: Their focus on utilities may mean they are not well-suited to non-utility-related projects.
• Geographic Reach: Service areas may be limited compared to companies with greater statewide reach.

Who It's Best For

Pipeworx is best for clients focused on specific utility projects, seeking specialized expertise in those areas. They are a good choice for installing new utilities or upgrading existing infrastructure.

5. Ditch Witch of California

Ditch Witch of California is an equipment provider, but they also offer directional drilling services. They provide rentals, sales, and service for all types of directional drills. This offers a unique advantage for clients seeking a fully integrated solution.

Pros

• Equipment Expertise: Their expertise in directional drilling equipment can provide advantages in project execution.
• Equipment Sales and Rental: Their access to equipment rentals and sales can provide flexibility for projects.

Cons

• Potentially Higher Costs: The business model may lead to higher costs to provide equipment and services.
• Service Scope: Their service scope might be limited compared to general construction companies.

Who It's Best For

Ditch Witch is optimal for clients who value a one-stop-shop approach, accessing expertise alongside equipment solutions. They are a good choice for those seeking a company with an in-depth understanding of directional drilling equipment.

6. DrillTech Directional Drilling

DrillTech Directional Drilling is a company that specializes in horizontal directional drilling services across California. They undertake a range of drilling projects for various industries, and they focus on providing cost-effective and efficient solutions.

Pros

• Competitive Pricing: DrillTech often aims to provide cost-effective drilling services.
• Focus on Efficiency: Their approach generally focuses on efficiency to deliver projects.

Cons

• Limited Information: Detailed information like project scope and expertise can be more difficult to ascertain compared to some larger companies.
• Smaller Operations: Might not be geared toward large-scale projects.

Who It's Best For

DrillTech is best suited for budget-conscious clients and those with projects that require a focus on cost-effectiveness. The company is a good initial option to consider for projects that might not be overly complex.

Conclusion

Choosing the right directional drilling company is essential for the success of any underground infrastructure project in California. While each company on this list offers valuable services, Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation stands out as the premier choice. Their comprehensive service offerings, experienced team, advanced technology, commitment to safety, and statewide coverage make them an industry leader. They are ideally suited for complex projects that demand precision, efficiency, and a commitment to minimizing environmental impact. From fiber optic installations to large-scale pipeline projects, Devco delivers exceptional results, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.

For unparalleled expertise and reliability in directional drilling and hydro excavation, contact Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation today. Visit https://developmentandengineering.com/ to learn more about their services and how they can bring your next underground project to successful completion.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about directional drilling in California:

What is directional drilling?

Directional drilling, also known as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), is a trenchless method for installing underground utilities such as pipelines, conduits, and cables with minimal surface disruption. It allows for infrastructure installation beneath roads, rivers, and other obstacles without the need for extensive excavation.

What are the benefits of directional drilling?

The benefits include minimal surface disruption, reduced environmental impact, faster installation times compared to traditional trenching, and the ability to navigate around obstacles.

What types of projects is directional drilling used for?

Directional drilling is used for various projects, including the installation of fiber optic cables, gas pipelines, water and sewer lines, electrical conduits, and more.

How do I find the best directional drilling company near me?

Consider factors like experience, equipment, safety record, project portfolio, and customer reviews when choosing a company. Checking their online presence, verifying their licenses, and reading testimonials can help.

What are the key factors to consider when choosing a directional drilling company?

Consider experience, safety record, equipment, project portfolio, the company's service area and what types of drilling they offer (Hydro excavation, etc), and the company's reputation.

How much does directional drilling cost?

The cost of directional drilling varies greatly depending on factors such as the length and depth of the bore, soil conditions, the size of the pipes or cables being installed, and the project's complexity.

What is hydro excavation and how does it relate to directional drilling?

Hydro excavation is a non-destructive method of precisely exposing underground utilities before or after drilling operations, minimizing the risk of damage. Many directional drilling companies offer hydro excavation services as part of their comprehensive approach.

Does a directional drilling company have to be licensed in California?

Yes, all directional drilling companies operating in California are required to hold the necessary licenses and permits to ensure compliance with state and local regulations.