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Lead service lines in Chicago, IL

122 water utilities serve Chicago, with approximately 2,791,050 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
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Galvanized
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Lead Service Lines in Chicago, IL

Chicago's water system serves nearly 2.8 million people across 122 water systems. The city of Chicago itself—managed by the Chicago Department of Water Management—serves about 2.7 million residents.

Lead service lines are pipes that connect a home to the public water main. They were commonly installed before the 1980s. If your home was built before that era and has never had its service line replaced, there's a possibility yours contains lead.

What Chicago's data shows

The Chicago water system has not publicly reported a count of known lead service lines in its inventory. This doesn't mean lead lines aren't present—it means the full inventory is still being compiled. Federal law requires utilities to complete lead service line inventories by 2026.

Chicago released its drinking water quality report for 2023, which tested tap water samples across the city. If you want the most current testing data or inventory status, contact the Chicago Department of Water Management directly.

Why this matters

Lead can leach into drinking water as it passes through corroded pipes. Exposure is a concern, especially for young children and pregnant people. The CDC recommends testing your water if you're concerned, and there are steps you can take to reduce exposure while you wait for pipe replacement.

What you can do now

Request your service line material. Call the Chicago Department of Water Management and ask whether your address has a lead service line on file. They may have records from when your line was installed.

Test your tap water. The city offers free or reduced-cost testing. Contact the department for details on how to request a kit.

Use a filter if needed. NSF-certified filters can reduce lead in drinking water. Look for one rated for lead removal (ask the seller or check the package).

Know the replacement process. Chicago offers partial funding for replacing lead service lines. The city's program requires property owners to cover some costs, but assistance is available for income-qualified households.

Next steps for residents

  • Call the Chicago Department of Water Management at 311 or (312) 744-7038 to ask about your service line.
  • Request a free water test if you haven't had one done recently.
  • Visit the City of Chicago's water quality page for current inventory and testing information.
  • If you're concerned about health effects, consult your doctor or pediatrician.

Utilities serving Chicago

Common questions

Does Chicago have lead service lines?

Chicago's water system may contain lead service lines, particularly in older homes built before the 1980s. The city has not yet published a complete count of known lead lines, but utilities must finish their inventories by 2026.

How do I know if my Chicago home has a lead service line?

Call the Chicago Department of Water Management (311 or 312-744-7038) and ask for your service line material. They may have installation records for your address. You can also request a free water test to check for lead in your tap water.

Does Chicago help replace lead service lines?

Yes, the city offers partial funding for lead service line replacement. Property owners are required to pay some costs, but assistance programs exist for income-qualified households. Contact the Department of Water Management for eligibility details.

Is Chicago tap water safe to drink?

Chicago's most recent drinking water quality report (2023) tested samples across the city. For current results and details on your specific area, contact the Department of Water Management or visit their water quality page.