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Lead service lines in Ketchikan, AK

15 water utilities serve Ketchikan, with approximately 11,624 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
0
Galvanized
0
Unknown
0
% unknown
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Lead Service Lines in Ketchikan, AK

What you need to know

Ketchikan's water systems serve about 11,624 people across 15 utilities. The good news: no lead service lines have been identified in the city's inventory data.

That said, "not identified" doesn't always mean "not present." Some older pipes—especially in homes built before 1986—may contain lead or galvanized steel (which can corrode and release lead). Many water systems are still mapping their service lines, so inventories continue to grow more complete.

The main water systems

Ketchikan Public Utilities serves the largest population (8,937 residents). Other utilities include South Tongass Water Utility (975 residents), Saxman (450), Point Higgins Elementary School (300), and Knudson Cove Marina (233).

If you're unsure which utility serves your home, check your water bill or contact Ketchikan Public Utilities directly.

What homeowners should do

Your water system's lead inventory is public information. You can ask your utility:

  • Whether your home's service line has been inventoried yet
  • What material connects your meter to the street
  • If they have a map showing service line locations in your neighborhood

If your home was built before 1986, the pipe connection is more likely to contain lead. Even if the city's main pipes are safe, the interior plumbing in older homes sometimes uses lead solder or brass fittings.

Testing your water

The EPA recommends a simple first step: a lead test kit (available at hardware stores, ~$15–30). If results are high, have a licensed plumber inspect visible pipes and fittings.

The CDC has guidance on reducing lead exposure while you investigate further.

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Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility to ask about your service line material and whether testing has been done in your area
  • Request a copy of the utility's lead service line inventory (it's public)
  • If your home was built before 1986, consider an inexpensive water test or a plumbing inspection
  • Visit your utility's website for water quality reports and lead reduction programs

Utilities serving Ketchikan

Common questions

Does Ketchikan have lead in the water?

No lead service lines have been identified in Ketchikan's water system inventories so far. However, inventories are still being completed, and older homes may have lead pipes or fittings that haven't been mapped yet. Contact your utility to ask about your specific property.

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

Contact your water utility with your address—they can check their service line inventory or send someone to inspect the connection at your meter. You can also look at the pipe entering your home; lead is soft, dark gray, and can be scratched with a coin.

Is it safe to drink Ketchikan tap water?

Yes, Ketchikan's water systems meet EPA safety standards. However, if your home is older and you're concerned about lead in interior plumbing, a water test can confirm whether lead is reaching your tap.

What should I do if I find out I have a lead service line?

You can replace it (costs vary widely), use a water filter certified for lead removal, or flush your pipes before drinking. Talk to your utility about replacement assistance programs or low-interest loans that may be available.