Lead Service Lines in Fresno, CA
What you need to know
Fresno's water systems serve about 662,000 people across the city and surrounding areas. Right now, there is no publicly reported data showing confirmed lead service lines in Fresno's water systems.
That doesn't mean lead service lines don't exist here—it means the data hasn't been collected or made public yet. California water utilities are required to identify and report lead service lines, but the timeline and completeness of these inventories varies by system.
Your water system
The City of Fresno is the largest water provider in the area, serving about 545,700 people. Other notable systems include California State University Fresno (41,000 people), Bakman Water Company (17,393 people), Cherry Auction (7,000 people), and Malaga County Water District (5,979 people).
Each system maintains its own lead service line inventory. Some may have data available now; others may still be working on identification.
Why lead service lines matter
Lead is a toxic metal that can leach into drinking water, especially when water is corrosive or newly installed pipes are used. Children and pregnant people are at highest risk. Even small amounts of lead exposure can affect brain development and learning.
If your home was built before 1980, or if you're unsure about your service line material, it's worth checking.
How to find out about your home
Your service line is the pipe that connects your home to the public water main—usually buried under your yard or street. It may be made of copper, plastic, or lead.
Contact your local water utility directly and ask:
- Whether your home's service line has been inventoried
- What material it's made of
- Whether they have a map or record of the line
The utility may send someone to check, or they may already have this information on file.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility and ask for information about your service line. (See the system list above for the major providers in Fresno.)
- Request a water test if you're concerned about lead, even if your service line material is unknown.
- Use a certified lead test kit or hire a certified lab if you test your water at home.
- Check the EPA's resources on lead and drinking water for more information and health guidance.
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