LeadPipeLookup

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Lead service lines in Fargo, ND

8 water utilities serve Fargo, with approximately 121,227 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 Fargo, North Dakota

Fargo's water system serves about 121,000 people through 8 different water utilities. The good news: current data shows no known lead service lines have been identified in the city's main water system or its smaller utilities.

That said, "no known lead service lines" doesn't mean zero risk—it means they haven't been discovered or reported yet. Lead pipes are invisible from the street, and many water systems across the US are still in the early stages of mapping their underground infrastructure.

What you need to know

Lead service lines are pipes that carry water from the main water line under the street into your home. If your house was built before 1986 (when lead solder was banned), or between 1986–2014 (when brass fittings with lead were still used), there's a chance your connection contains lead.

The City of Fargo serves the vast majority of the population (about 120,760 people). The other utilities—including Tom Brantner Memorial Camp, Camp Cormorant, and Eagle Lake Resort—serve much smaller populations but follow the same federal testing and reporting rules.

Why this matters

Lead in drinking water typically comes from corroded pipes, not from the water source itself. Even low levels can affect children's brain development. The EPA has set a safety standard, but many health experts say there is no truly "safe" level for young children.

The best way to know if your home has a lead service line is to ask your water utility or hire a licensed plumber to inspect your underground connection. You can also take steps to reduce exposure right now: run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking it, use cold water for cooking and baby formula, and consider a pitcher or faucet filter certified for lead removal.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact the City of Fargo water utility to ask if your specific address has a lead service line or known lead connections nearby.
  • Get your water tested — many utilities offer free testing; ask when you call.
  • If you have young children, talk to your pediatrician about lead exposure and consider interim precautions while you investigate.
  • Learn more from the EPA's lead in drinking water guide or the CDC's lead prevention resources.

Utilities serving Fargo

Common questions

Does Fargo have lead pipes in the water system?

Current data shows no known lead service lines in Fargo's main water system or its 8 utilities. However, "no known" does not mean zero risk—many systems are still mapping their infrastructure. Contact the City of Fargo water utility to check if your address has a lead connection.

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

Call the City of Fargo water utility with your address and ask. You can also hire a licensed plumber to inspect the pipe where it enters your home, or request free water testing through your utility.

Is lead in Fargo's tap water dangerous?

Lead from corroded pipes can be harmful, especially to young children and pregnant women. The EPA sets legal limits, but health experts recommend minimizing exposure. If you have young children, contact your pediatrician and take interim steps like flushing the tap before drinking.

What can I do right now to reduce lead exposure?

Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, use cold water for cooking and baby formula, and consider a certified lead-removal pitcher or faucet filter while you investigate your home's pipes.