What Are Water Service Lines?

• Water Service Lines are pipes that carry water from the City’s main water distribution line to your home or business. Service lines are also known as laterals. 
• These service lines are divided into two parts: 
  
  1. City-Owned Portion: The section of the pipe from the main line to your property line.
  ▪ The City has confirmed that these lines are lead-free. 
  ▪ Learn more: City of Fresno Water Division 
  
  2. Customer-Owned Portion: The section of the pipe from the meter to your home or building.
  ▪ You own this portion of the service line. 
  ▪ This is the section we are trying to identify. 
• Water Service Lines are made up of various materials such as Cross-Linked Polyethylene, PVC, copper, galvanized steel, or lead. 

Why Did I Receive a Notification?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (USEPA) Lead and Copper Rule requires all water utilities to identify the materials of service lines connecting properties to the water system. 

The City of Fresno Department of Public Utilities – Water Division recently conducted an initial inventory of water service lines, which connect homes, buildings, or other structures to the City’s water main. You received a notification because we were unable to confirm the material type of the pipe that connects your home or building to the point of connection to the City’s water main. 

Learn more: EPA Lead and Copper Rule 

Why Is This Happening Now?

The EPA recently updated its Lead and Copper Rule. As part of these updates, all utilities must verify the materials of service lines. 

This effort is happening nationwide, and the City of Fresno is working to meet these requirements. 

Learn more: EPA Lead and Copper Rule 

What Does “Lead Status Unknown” Mean?

“Lead Status Unknown” simply means that we couldn’t determine the material of your customer-owned service line during our preliminary review. It does not mean there is lead in your water or your service line was made from lead material. The notification is part of a record-keeping process required by federal regulations. 

Is My Water Safe? 

Yes! The City of Fresno’s water supply meets or exceeds all federal and state safety standards. There is no indication of lead in your water. 

The notification is not an emergency; it’s a proactive effort to ensure accurate records of service line materials. 

When were lead pipes used and why? 

In the United States, lead became the most commonly used piping material in the late 1800’s and dominated the market until the 1930’s, when steel and copper pipes most often were used when replacing aging water lines. However, during the Second World War, it was more common for some homes to have been constructed with lead pipes. If your home was built during this time (late 1930’s to late 1940’s) it may have lead pipe materials. (Source: State Water Resources Control Board) 

Since the homeowner/resident is responsible for the pipes from the meter to the dwelling, how can one know if those pipes are lead-free? 

If you are concerned about lead pipes or fittings on your side of the meter 

1. Check Your Service Line Material:
   • If you know the material of your service line or have replaced it, let us know by calling (559) 621-5361 or by emailing [email protected]. 
2. Schedule an Inspection:
   • If you’re unsure about the material, the City can provide guidance or help arrange an inspection.

How Do I Check My Service Line Material? 

1. 1. Locate Your Service Line:
   • Your service line is typically located between your water meter and your home or business.
2. 2. Inspect the Pipe:
   • Lead: Dull gray, soft metal that scratches easily with a coin.
   • Copper: Reddish-brown, may turn green when oxidized.
   • Plastic: Typically white, blue, or black.
3. 3. Contact Us for Assistance and how to report your findings:
   • If you need help identifying the material, reach out to our team at (559) 621-5361.

Can I get the water in my home tested for the presence of lead? Is it expensive? 

Yes, you can have your water tested by a certified lab. We don’t encourage testing done using a home kit. The test kits you buy at the store look for lead in the part per million range. Drinking water needs to be tested in the lower part per billion range to make sure it is safe to drink. We urge folks to use a certified lab or enlist the help of the community water system to find a reputable and certified testing lab. (Source: State Water Resources Control Board) 

Resources for More Information 

• City of Fresno Water Division 
• EPA Lead and Copper Rule