LeadPipeLookup

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Lead service lines in Missoula, MT

193 water utilities serve Missoula, with approximately 134,116 people served.

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

Missoula's 134,116 residents are served by 193 water systems. The good news: no known lead service lines have been reported in the area's inventory data. However, "unknown" doesn't mean "absent"—it means records are incomplete or testing hasn't been done yet.

Why this matters

Lead service lines are pipes that connect your home to the water main. If your line is lead, water sitting in it overnight or during low-use periods can pick up lead. The EPA and CDC both consider this a genuine health concern, especially for young children and pregnant people.

Most homes built before 1980 in older neighborhoods are at higher risk. Montana generally has fewer lead service lines than older industrial cities back East, but the only way to know your home's status is to check.

What Missoula water systems know (and don't)

The largest system, Missoula Water, serves 68,200 people but hasn't yet reported lead service line counts to the state. The University of Montana system (15,000 people) and four smaller rest-stop systems also show incomplete data.

This doesn't mean lead isn't present—it often means the utility is still surveying records or hasn't submitted updated information to Montana's drinking water program.

Your next steps

Contact your water provider directly. They are required by federal law to maintain records of service line materials and to share this information with you upon request. Missoula Water is the largest provider; smaller systems depend on which address you're in.

When you call, ask:

  • What material is my service line (lead, copper, galvanized steel, plastic, or unknown)?
  • When was the last line inspection or material test at my address?
  • Do you have a lead service line replacement program or rebate?

If your line is lead or unknown, consider a simple test: a certified water testing lab can check your tap water. If lead is detected, flushing your tap for 5–30 seconds before use and running cold water only for cooking and drinking are interim steps. For health concerns, speak with your pediatrician or contact the CDC.

Next steps for residents

  • Call your water utility and ask for your service line material and any available test results
  • Request a free or low-cost water test if your line is lead or unknown
  • Visit Montana's drinking water program (DHES) for statewide service line data and utility contact info
  • Check your home's age and location—pre-1980 homes in older neighborhoods are higher risk, but all areas can have lead lines

Utilities serving Missoula

Common questions

Does Missoula have lead in the water?

No known lead service lines have been reported in Missoula's inventory. However, some utilities haven't yet completed their surveys, so unknown lines may still exist. The only way to know yours is to contact your water provider or have your tap water tested.

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

Call your water utility (Missoula Water for most residents) and ask about your service line material. They're required to provide this information. If records are incomplete, you can hire a plumber or contact a certified water testing lab.

Is lead in water dangerous for kids?

Yes—the CDC identifies lead exposure as a health concern for young children and pregnant people. For specific health advice, talk to your pediatrician or call your local health department.

What should I do if my water tests positive for lead?

Run cold water for 5–30 seconds before drinking or cooking, use only cold water for drinking and cooking, and contact your utility about replacement programs. Speak with your doctor about testing and next steps.