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LCRR utility compliance status in Hawaii

How are Hawaii water utilities doing on EPA LCRR compliance?

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
136
Known lead
0
Unknown
0
BIL funding
$0M

Lead Service Line Compliance in Hawaii Water Systems

Where Hawaii stands on lead inventory requirements

Hawaii's 136 public water systems serve about 1.5 million people. As of October 2024, these systems reported their lead service line (LSL) inventories to the EPA under the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR).

The statewide picture: zero lead service lines reported as known and zero reported as unknown. This means Hawaii's utilities documented their service line materials and determined none meet the federal definition of a lead service line—or they have no premise plumbing with lead connections in their service areas.

This is unusual. Most states report a mix of known, unknown, and confirmed lead lines. Hawaii's outcome suggests either very limited historical use of lead service lines, or systematic documentation across all systems.

What the LCRR requires

Under EPA rules, water utilities must:

  • Identify all lead and galvanized steel service lines in their systems
  • Categorize each line as "known lead," "unknown," or "lead-free"
  • Report findings by October 2024
  • Develop plans to replace unknown lines within 10 years
  • Notify customers if their service line is lead or unknown

What this means for Hawaii residents

If your water system reported zero unknown lines, they claim to have pinpointed every service line's material. This does not guarantee your home has no lead exposure—lead can leach from solder, brass fittings, or internal plumbing even in systems without lead service lines.

If your system reported zero known lead lines, ask them directly: Did they conduct visual inspections, review construction records, or use another method? Request documentation of how they classified your specific line.

Hawaii's state primacy agency (Department of Health) oversees compliance. No recent enforcement actions or compliance violations have been publicly reported as of late 2024.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility and request your home's service line classification and the method used to determine it.
  • Ask for the utility's inventory report submitted to the EPA—it's public record.
  • Test your water for lead if you're concerned (especially if your home was built before 1986).
  • Refer to CDC guidance on reducing lead exposure at home, regardless of service line status.

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Related topics in Hawaii

Common questions

Does Hawaii have lead in its water?

Hawaii utilities reported zero known lead service lines statewide as of October 2024. However, lead can enter water through internal plumbing (solder, brass fittings) even without lead service lines. If you're concerned, contact your utility and consider a water test.

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

Contact your water utility directly—they are required to tell you whether your service line is known lead, unknown, or lead-free, based on their inventory. Ask what method they used to classify your line.

Is Hawaii water safe to drink?

Hawaii utilities meet federal safety standards, but safety depends on your specific plumbing and the water source. For health concerns, consult the CDC or your pediatrician; for water quality questions, contact your local utility.

What should I do if I think my water has lead?

First, contact your water utility and request your service line status. You can also have your water tested by a certified lab. The EPA's lead action level is 15 ppb; your utility must notify you if this is exceeded.