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Lead service lines in Newton, MA

9 water utilities serve Newton, with approximately 102,402 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
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Lead service lines in Newton, MA

Newton's water system serves about 102,400 people through 9 different water utilities. The largest is Newton Water Department (MWRA), which serves roughly 88,400 residents.

What we know about lead service lines in Newton

Massachusetts requires water utilities to maintain inventories of lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the water main. These inventories help identify which neighborhoods may have higher risk.

Currently, no lead service lines have been confirmed in Newton's public inventory data. However, this doesn't mean none exist. Many older cities in Massachusetts still have unknown numbers of lead lines, and utilities are still completing their surveys and inventories.

If your home was built before 1986 (when lead solder was phased out), or if your street has old infrastructure, there's a reasonable chance your service line could contain lead or lead-bearing materials. The only way to know for sure is to have it tested or to contact your water utility directly.

Why lead service lines matter

Lead can leach into drinking water, especially in homes with older plumbing. Even small amounts of lead exposure can affect children's development and learning. The good news: you have control. Replacing a lead service line, installing a certified filter, or running water before use can all reduce exposure.

Massachusetts has some of the strongest lead requirements in the country. Your utility is required to notify you if a lead service line is identified on your property.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact Newton Water Department (MWRA) to ask if your property has a lead service line on file. They can tell you what they know—or don't know—about your line.
  • If your home was built before 1986, consider getting your water tested by a certified lab. Your utility can recommend one.
  • Read your utility's lead inventory and reduction plan. Massachusetts requires utilities to publish this information publicly. Look for it on the MWRA website.
  • If you have young children, talk to your pediatrician about lead exposure risk and blood lead testing.

Utilities serving Newton

Common questions

Does Newton have lead in the water?

Newton's public water inventory currently shows no confirmed lead service lines, but older homes may still have them. Contact Newton Water Department to check your property specifically.

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

Call Newton Water Department and ask. They have inventory records. If your home was built before 1986, the risk is higher. A plumber can also visually inspect the line where it enters your home.

Is it safe to drink Newton tap water?

Newton's water meets federal safety standards. However, if you have a lead service line or old plumbing, running water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking, or using a certified filter, reduces any risk.

Who do I contact about replacing my lead service line?

Start with Newton Water Department—they can tell you if the line is on their property or yours, what the process looks like, and what financial assistance may be available. Massachusetts and federal programs offer some funding for replacement.