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Lead service lines in Council Bluffs, IA

14 water utilities serve Council Bluffs, with approximately 65,766 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 Council Bluffs, IA

What we know about lead in Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs serves about 65,766 people through 14 different water systems. The good news: there are currently no confirmed lead service lines reported in the city's inventory data.

That said, "no confirmed" doesn't mean "zero risk." Many water systems across the country—including some in Iowa—haven't completed a full inventory of their pipes yet. Lead service lines are most common in homes built before 1986, when lead was phased out of plumbing materials. If your house is older, it's worth knowing what's in the ground between the street and your home.

The largest water provider: Council Bluffs Water Works

Council Bluffs Water Works serves the vast majority of residents (about 64,447 people). The utility is responsible for maintaining records of lead service lines and sharing that information with the public. If you're on their system and want details about your specific address, contact them directly—they have the most detailed records.

The city also has 13 smaller water systems serving churches, businesses, and other facilities. Most serve under 250 people each.

Should you be concerned?

Lead enters water when pipes corrode—it doesn't come from the treatment plant itself. The risk is highest if:

  • Your home was built before the late 1980s
  • Your water sits in pipes for hours (first-thing-in-the-morning water)
  • Your home has old plumbing

If you're worried about lead exposure, especially if children or pregnant people drink your tap water, contact your local health department or pediatrician for guidance. The CDC has straightforward information on reducing lead exposure.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility to ask if your address has a lead service line. Council Bluffs Water Works can tell you what's on record.
  • Check your home's age. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes.
  • Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking if you haven't used a faucet for several hours.
  • If you need testing, ask your water utility or health department about low-cost lead water tests.

Utilities serving Council Bluffs

Common questions

Does Council Bluffs have lead pipes?

No confirmed lead service lines are currently reported in Council Bluffs' inventory. However, if your home was built before the late 1980s, it's worth asking your water utility to check records for your address.

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

Contact Council Bluffs Water Works (the main utility) with your address. They maintain records of what type of pipe connects your home to the street. You can also look at your water bill or service paperwork.

What should I do if my water has lead?

Use cold tap water (not hot) for drinking and cooking, run water for 30 seconds before use if it's been sitting, and consider a certified water filter. For health concerns, especially for children, contact your pediatrician or local health department.

Can lead in water make you sick?

Lead exposure over time can harm health, especially in children and pregnant people. Talk to your doctor or pediatrician about your specific situation. The CDC website has detailed information on health effects and prevention.