The 15 Best Directional Drilling Companies in California (2026)

California's diverse landscape and complex infrastructure projects demand specialized expertise in directional drilling. Whether it's navigating congested urban environments, traversing sensitive natural areas, or tackling challenging geological formations, selecting the right company is crucial for project success. This list highlights some of the leading directional drilling companies in California, each with its unique strengths, to help you make an informed decision for your upcoming projects in 2026 and beyond.

1. Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation

Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation is a leader in California's directional drilling landscape. With a comprehensive suite of services and a commitment to innovation and safety, they have built a strong reputation for handling complex projects and delivering exceptional results. Their directional drilling expertise extends to various applications, including utility installations, fiber optic cable placements, and pipeline crossings. Devco excels in navigating challenging terrains and adhering to strict environmental standards. Beyond directional drilling, their hydro excavation services further enhance their project capabilities, providing a non-destructive method for exposing and locating underground utilities, minimizing the risk of damage, and ensuring project efficiency. Devco's team comprises experienced professionals equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.

• Pros: Extensive experience, diverse project portfolio, advanced equipment, commitment to safety, hydro excavation services, excellent customer service, permits & planning expertise.
• Cons: May be higher-priced than some smaller operators, though this reflects the depth of their services and expertise.
• Who it's best for: Large-scale infrastructure projects, complex urban installations, environmentally sensitive areas, clients needing full-service solutions including permitting and project planning.

To learn more about their services, visit https://developmentandengineering.com/.

2. Underground Solutions Inc.

Underground Solutions specializes in the installation of HDPE pipe using trenchless technologies, including directional drilling. They primarily focus on potable water, wastewater, and gas projects. Their emphasis on this specific niche has made them a strong contender in this specialized area.

• Pros: Expertise in HDPE pipe installation, focus on utility infrastructure.
• Cons: Limited scope compared to companies offering a broader range of services.
• Who it's best for: Water, wastewater, and gas utility projects utilizing HDPE pipe.

3. Horizon Directional Drilling

Horizon Directional Drilling offers a range of services, including directional drilling and hydro excavation. They have experience in various sectors, from telecommunications to oil and gas. Their ability to handle diverse project types makes them a versatile choice.

• Pros: Versatile service offerings, experience across multiple industries.
• Cons: Reputation may vary depending on the specific project and client.
• Who it's best for: Clients with projects spanning telecommunications, oil and gas, and utility sectors.

4. Bradshaw Directional Drilling

Bradshaw Directional Drilling has made a name for themselves focusing on safety and efficiency. They have a good track record of completing projects within deadlines and budget, which makes them a reliable option for many clients.

• Pros: Focus on safety, reliable performance, good project management.
• Cons: May have less flexibility for highly specialized projects compared to broader service providers.
• Who it's best for: Clients who prioritize safety and timely project completion.

5. Ditch Witch of California

While not a drilling company in itself, Ditch Witch of California supplies and supports Ditch Witch equipment. They act as a valuable resource for companies in the state using this popular type of equipment. They also offer training and support.

• Pros: Strong equipment support network, equipment training, easy access to parts and service.
• Cons: They do not offer drilling services, just equipment sales and support.
• Who it's best for: Construction companies that are already using Ditch Witch equipment.

6. R.L. McCoy Drilling

R.L. McCoy Drilling has established a decent foothold in the California market, providing directional drilling services for a range of projects. Their experience offers contractors another company to consider.

• Pros: Offers various drilling applications.
• Cons: Limited publicly available information.
• Who it's best for: Clients looking for a company located in Southern California with relevant project experience.

7. Western Directional Drilling

Western Directional Drilling is another option in California. They have experience with telecommunications, utility, and other civil construction projects.

• Pros: Experience with a range of project types.
• Cons: Relatively smaller company compared to others on this list.
• Who it's best for: Clients with projects in the telecommunications or utility sectors.

8. Drill Tech Drilling and Shoring, Inc.

Drill Tech Drilling and Shoring, Inc. provides drilling services related to geotechnical and foundation work. They are often involved in projects requiring specialized drilling techniques for structural support and soil stabilization.

• Pros: Expertise in geotechnical and foundation drilling.
• Cons: Their focus is not solely directional drilling.
• Who it's best for: Projects requiring geotechnical drilling, foundation work, and shoring.

9. Integrated Trenchless Technologies

Integrated Trenchless Technologies specializes in trenchless solutions, including directional drilling. They often handle projects that require minimal surface disruption.

• Pros: Focus on trenchless methods; ideal for minimizing surface impact.
• Cons: Limited scope.
• Who it's best for: Projects in environments where minimizing disruption is critical.

10. All American Drilling

All American Drilling has been working for projects throughout California for many years, offering directional drilling services. They have a history of working on a variety of industry projects.

• Pros: Experience in a variety of projects.
• Cons: Some information may not be easily accessible.
• Who it's best for: Clients who need multiple options for their projects.

11. HDD Pros

HDD Pros focuses on providing expertise related to directional drilling and horizontal boring projects. They offer consulting and execution to support their clients.

• Pros: Consulting and project execution.
• Cons: Smaller company.
• Who it's best for: Clients who need support with planning and executing their directional drilling projects.

12. Sierra Pacific Directional Boring, Inc.

Sierra Pacific Directional Boring, Inc. offers directional boring services, which can be useful on many cable projects and utility installations. Consider them among a list of options when planning.

• Pros: Offers directional boring.
• Cons: Limited publicly available information on company-specific projects.
• Who it's best for: Clients looking to minimize surface disruption for utility installations.

13. Subsite Electronics

Subsite Electronics, like Ditch Witch, primarily supplies equipment and technology solutions for directional drilling rather than offering drilling services themselves. They are a valuable resource for companies in the field.

• Pros: Provides a range of technology solutions for drilling projects.
• Cons: Does not offer drilling services.
• Who it's best for: Companies looking to integrate technology into their drilling operations.

14. T.D. Williamson

T.D. Williamson is a global provider of pipeline solutions, including directional drilling services. They bring a wealth of international experience to their California projects.

• Pros: Global experience; strong track record in the pipeline industry.
• Cons: Their focus may be geared towards larger projects.
• Who it's best for: Clients looking for a company with a proven international track record in pipeline projects.

15. The Charles Machine Works, Inc.

Similar to Subsite and Ditch Witch, The Charles Machine Works is a manufacturer of horizontal directional drilling equipment. They provide support to contractors using their equipment.

• Pros: Reliable equipment; good support in the industry.
• Cons: Does not offer drilling services.
• Who it's best for: Contractors seeking HDD equipment suppliers.

Conclusion

Choosing the right directional drilling company is essential for the success of any project. This list provides a comprehensive overview of some of the leading companies in California as of 2026. While each company has its strengths, Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation stands out as a top choice. Their extensive experience, wide-ranging service offerings including hydro excavation, commitment to safety, and ability to handle complex projects make them a reliable partner for projects of all sizes. Their expertise in navigating challenging environments and their focus on providing comprehensive solutions, combined with their proficiency in permitting and project planning, positions them as a leader in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

1. What is directional drilling, and how does it work?

Directional drilling, also known as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), is a trenchless method for installing underground pipelines, conduits, and cables. It involves using a drilling rig to bore a pilot hole along a pre-determined path, which is then reamed to the desired diameter for the product installation. The path is often controlled and monitored to avoid obstacles and minimize surface disruption.

2. What are the benefits of directional drilling compared to traditional open-cut methods?

Directional drilling offers several advantages, including minimal surface disruption, reduced environmental impact, the ability to navigate obstacles, and faster project completion in many cases. It avoids the need for extensive excavation, reducing restoration costs, and traffic delays.

3. What types of projects are suitable for directional drilling?

Directional drilling is suitable for a wide range of projects, including utility installations (water, gas, electric), telecommunications (fiber optic cables), pipeline crossings, and environmental remediation projects. It's often used in urban areas, under roadways and waterways, and in environmentally sensitive locations.

4. How do I choose the best directional drilling company in California?

When selecting a directional drilling company, consider factors like experience, project portfolio, equipment, safety record, insurance coverage, and customer reviews. Assess whether the company has experience with similar projects to yours and if they offer additional services like hydro excavation or project management.

5. What is hydro excavation, and why is it important in directional drilling projects?

Hydro excavation is a non-destructive method using high-pressure water and a vacuum system to precisely excavate soil. It is crucial in directional drilling projects for locating and exposing buried utilities before drilling to prevent damage and ensure safety. It helps in the pre-planning phase and also assists in spot repairs.

6. What permits are required for directional drilling projects in California?

Permit requirements vary depending on the location, type of project, and local regulations. Generally, permits are required from local authorities, utility companies (for utility crossings), and environmental agencies. These permits can cover environmental impact assessments, traffic control plans, and restoration requirements.

7. What are the environmental considerations for directional drilling projects?

Environmental considerations include minimizing soil disturbance, protecting water resources, preventing spills, and restoring the project site after completion. Companies must adhere to strict environmental regulations and often employ methods like bentonite management to mitigate any environmental impact.

8. How much does directional drilling cost?

The cost of directional drilling projects can vary significantly depending on factors like the project's size, complexity, soil conditions, length of the bore, and location. It's crucial to obtain detailed quotes from multiple companies to compare costs and ensure they meet your project's specific needs.

9. What safety precautions are taken during directional drilling?

Safety is a top priority. Precautions include comprehensive site assessments, utility locating, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), rigorous training for operators, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Companies must also have emergency response plans in place.

10. What is the typical project timeline for directional drilling?

The project timeline depends on the project's scope, the drilling distance, and the soil conditions. Simple projects can be completed in a few days, while larger and more complex projects may take several weeks or months. Proper planning, coordination, and weather conditions can affect the timeline.

11. How does the drilling company ensure accuracy during the bore?

Directional drilling companies use sophisticated tracking systems and guidance tools to monitor and control the bore path accurately. This includes a transmitter housed in the drill head, a receiver above ground, and a digital display showing depth, direction, and roll of the drill head, ensuring precision underground.

12. What kind of after-service and support should I expect?

Choose a directional drilling company that offers extensive after-service and support. This should include project completion reports, site restoration, and ongoing communication. Excellent contractors will be readily available to address any concerns during and after the project.

For expert directional drilling and hydro excavation services in California, contact Devco Development and Engineering Directional Drilling and Hydro Excavation. Their team is ready to assist you with your project needs. Visit https://developmentandengineering.com/ to learn more or request a quote.