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Lead service lines in Sioux Falls, SD

7 water utilities serve Sioux Falls, with approximately 223,237 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 Sioux Falls, SD

What you need to know

The City of Sioux Falls and six surrounding water systems serve about 223,000 people across the region. Lead service lines—the pipes that connect water mains to homes—are a potential source of lead in drinking water, especially in older neighborhoods.

Sioux Falls' water systems have not yet reported known lead service lines to the state database. However, the absence of reported lead lines doesn't mean none exist—it often reflects incomplete inventories. Many cities are still in the process of mapping their underground pipes, which can be difficult and expensive.

Why this matters

Lead is a toxic metal. Even small amounts in drinking water can pose health risks, particularly for children under 6 and pregnant people. If your home was built before the 1980s, or if you live in a neighborhood with older infrastructure, your service line could be lead, galvanized steel (which can leach lead), or unknown material.

The good news: lead at your water meter can be controlled. Using cold water for drinking and cooking, running water for 30 seconds before use, and installing a certified filter are all proven ways to reduce exposure while you work on longer-term solutions.

How to find out about your service line

Start with your water utility. The City of Sioux Falls and each of the smaller systems serving the area have records of pipe materials, though these records vary in completeness and detail. Call your utility and ask:

  • What material is your service line made of?
  • When was your home connected to the system?
  • Do they have an inventory or map of service lines in your neighborhood?

If your utility can't answer these questions immediately, ask when records will be available or whether they're conducting an inventory.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility to ask about your service line material. For the main city system, that's the City of Sioux Falls Water Department; if you're in a smaller service area, contact that system directly.
  • Test your water if you're concerned. Contact your local health department for recommended labs, or use an EPA-certified testing service.
  • Reduce exposure now by using cold water for drinking and cooking, and running water for 30 seconds before use.
  • Check the source of any water-related advisories or updates from your utility through their website or public notices.

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Utilities serving Sioux Falls

Common questions

Does Sioux Falls have lead in the water?

Lead in drinking water usually comes from service lines (the pipes connecting your home to the main water line) rather than the water source itself. Sioux Falls' water systems have not reported known lead service lines yet, but inventories are often incomplete. The best way to know if your home is affected is to contact your water utility and ask about your specific service line.

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

Contact your water utility (City of Sioux Falls Water Department or the system serving your area) and ask what material your service line is made of. They may have records based on when your home was built or connected. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the pipe where it enters your home, though this requires digging.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Sioux Falls?

Sioux Falls' water systems test for contaminants including lead and meet federal safety standards. However, if your home has a lead or galvanized service line, lead can leach into water inside your home. Simple steps like using cold water for drinking and cooking, and running water for 30 seconds before use, significantly reduce risk.

What should I do if I think I have a lead service line?

First, contact your water utility to confirm the pipe material. If it is lead or galvanized steel, use cold water for drinking and cooking, run water for 30 seconds before use, and consider installing a certified lead filter. For health concerns, talk to your doctor or contact the CDC.