Lead Service Lines in Williston, ND
Williston's water systems serve about 32,400 people across 11 utilities. The largest is the City of Williston, which provides water to roughly 26,400 residents.
What we know about lead service lines here
Currently, there are no confirmed lead service lines reported in Williston's water systems. The utility records also show no galvanized or unknown service line materials on file. This is good news—but it doesn't mean the issue is fully mapped. Many water systems, including those in Williston, are still in the process of surveying their infrastructure and may not have complete inventories yet.
Lead service lines were commonly installed before the 1980s in many parts of the country. If your home was built before that era and you're connected to a municipal water system, there's a chance—however small in Williston's case—that your line could be lead or contain lead components.
How to find out about your home
The best way to know your service line material is to contact your water utility directly. If you're in the City of Williston service area, reach out to the City of Williston's water department. If you're served by Northwest Rural Water District, Prairie View HOA, or another local utility, contact them by name.
When you call, ask:
- What material is my service line made of?
- Do you have records for my address?
- If you don't have records, what options do I have to find out?
Some utilities can tell you based on their maps or records. If they can't, you may need to hire a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home—typically visible in the basement or crawlspace.
If lead is present
Lead in drinking water is a real health concern, especially for young children and pregnant people. If you discover or suspect a lead service line, the EPA recommends flushing water before use, using cold water for drinking and cooking, and considering a certified water filter. For health concerns, contact your pediatrician or the CDC.
Replacing a lead service line is a significant project, but federal and state funding programs may help with costs. Your utility can advise you on replacement options and available assistance.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask about your service line material and whether they have inventory records for your address.
- If your home was built before 1980 and material is unknown, consider having a plumber inspect your line.
- If lead is found, consult your pediatrician about health precautions and explore replacement funding with your utility.
- Visit the EPA's lead in drinking water page for additional resources and testing information.