Lead Service Lines in Long Beach, CA
Long Beach serves about 468,000 people across seven water systems. The largest is Long Beach Utilities Department, which supplies water to roughly 466,000 residents in the city.
What we know about lead service lines here
The most recent inventory data available does not document confirmed lead service lines in Long Beach's water systems. However, the absence of reported lead service lines does not mean none exist—many utilities are still in the process of identifying and mapping their full inventories, particularly for older sections of the city.
Lead service lines are most common in homes built before 1950, and in areas where pipes haven't been replaced in decades. If your home was built before the 1980s, there's a possibility your connection could contain lead, even if your utility's current inventory doesn't list it.
Why this matters
Lead can leach into drinking water, especially from older pipes or when water is corrosive. Even low levels of lead in children's drinking water can affect development. The EPA and CDC recommend testing your water if you're concerned, particularly if you have young children.
What Long Beach residents can do
Contact Long Beach Utilities Department (the main water provider for the city) to ask:
- Whether your property address has a lead service line or galvanized pipes
- What testing options they recommend
- Whether they offer free or reduced-cost water testing
The utility can often identify the material of your service line through historical records or a visual inspection at your meter.
Getting your water tested
If you want independent verification, you can buy a simple lead test kit or hire a certified lab. Results take a few days. The EPA's website has guidance on certified testing labs in California.
If your water tests positive for lead, a certified plumber can assess whether your service line is the source and discuss replacement options. Some utilities offer financial assistance for this work.
Next steps for residents
- Call Long Beach Utilities Department and ask about your service line material and inventory status
- Have your water tested if your home was built before 1980 or if you have young children
- Document results and keep them on file for future reference
- Ask the utility about rebates or programs that help with lead service line replacement