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Lead service lines in Columbus, MS

10 water utilities serve Columbus, with approximately 54,971 people served.

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

About 55,000 people in Columbus rely on 10 water systems to deliver tap water to their homes. Water service lines—the pipes that run from the main water line under the street to your house—can be made of lead, especially in older neighborhoods built before the 1980s.

What we know about Columbus's lead service lines

Currently, there is no reported inventory of lead service lines across Columbus's water systems. This doesn't mean lead isn't present; it means the data hasn't been collected or made public yet. The largest system, Columbus Light & Water, serves about 23,600 residents, while nine smaller systems serve the rest of the city.

Under federal law, water utilities must inventory lead and galvanized service lines by 2026, so more information may become available in the coming years.

Why service lines matter

Lead can leach into drinking water if your service line is made of lead or if you have lead solder or brass fittings. Infants, young children, and pregnant people are at highest risk from lead exposure. Even low levels matter—there is no safe level of lead for children.

If your home was built before 1980, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead. Homes built in the 1990s or later are less likely to have lead service lines, though galvanized pipes (which can corrode and release lead) are still possible.

What you can do now

Get your water tested. Contact your local water utility for information on free or low-cost testing. A simple water sample can tell you whether lead is present at your tap.

Ask your utility about your service line. Call Columbus Light & Water or your local system and ask if they have records of your service line material. If they don't have records, ask what it will take for them to inspect your property.

Consider a filter if testing shows lead. NSF-certified filters designed for lead removal (look for NSF-53 or NSF-61 certification) can reduce lead in drinking water while you wait for longer-term solutions like service line replacement.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility to request a free water test or ask about service line records
  • If testing reveals lead above 15 ppb (parts per billion), reduce exposure while planning next steps
  • Speak with your pediatrician if you have children under six—they can discuss your specific situation
  • Visit the CDC's lead in drinking water page for additional guidance and resources

Utilities serving Columbus

Common questions

How do I know if my house has a lead service line in Columbus?

Contact your water utility—Columbus Light & Water or your local system—and ask for records of your property's service line. If they don't have records, the easiest first step is a water test. Homes built before 1980 are at higher risk.

Does Columbus have lead in the water?

Columbus's water systems have not reported a known inventory of lead service lines yet. However, absence of reported data doesn't mean lead isn't present. Getting your water tested is the most direct way to know your personal exposure.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Columbus, MS?

Most tap water in Columbus is safe. However, if your home has a lead service line or old plumbing, lead can leach into your water. A simple test from your utility will tell you if lead is present at your tap.

What should I do if lead is found in my water?

Use a certified lead-removal filter for drinking and cooking water while you explore longer-term solutions like service line replacement. Contact your water utility about assistance programs or grants. For health concerns, speak with your doctor, especially if children under six are in your home.