LeadPipeLookup

State overview

Lead service lines in Iowa

Aggregated lead pipe inventory data for all 1,817 public water systems in Iowa, serving approximately 3,119,581 residents.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
1,817
Population served
3,119,581
Known lead lines
0
Unknown material
0

Lead Service Lines in Iowa

Iowa serves roughly 3.1 million people through 1,817 public water systems. While lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the main water line—pose a real health risk, Iowa's current reported inventory shows no confirmed lead service lines statewide.

This doesn't mean there are no lead pipes in Iowa. It means water utilities have not yet completed full inventories, or the lines they've identified may be categorized differently (for example, as "galvanized" steel pipes, which can also leach lead). Many homes built before 1986, when federal regulations began limiting lead in plumbing, may still have lead or lead-bearing components.

What you need to know

Lead service lines are a real but manageable risk. Lead dissolves into water slowly. The amount you're exposed to depends on your water's chemistry, how old your pipes are, and how long water sits in them. Young children and pregnant people face the highest health risks from lead exposure.

Your utility may not know yet. Most Iowa water systems are still mapping their service lines. Until inventories are complete, you can't assume your utility has identified all lead pipes—or that your home is clear.

You have options now. You don't have to wait for your utility. You can:

  • Ask your water utility about your service line material (they may have records, even if inventories aren't public yet)
  • Get your water tested (the EPA recommends testing if your home was built before 1986)
  • Install a point-of-use filter certified to remove lead
  • Flush your pipes if water has sat unused for 6+ hours

Largest water systems in Iowa

  • Des Moines Water Works (246,055 people)
  • Iowa-American Water Co–Davenport (147,720 people)
  • Cedar Rapids Water Department (142,364 people)

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your local water utility to ask about their lead service line inventory status and your home's service line material.
  • If your home was built before 1986, consider having your water tested for lead by a certified lab.
  • Visit the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule page for testing and treatment guidance.
  • For health concerns, consult your pediatrician or the CDC's lead exposure page.

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Largest public water systems in Iowa

UtilityPWSIDPopulationKnown leadUnknown
SAC & FOX (MESKWAKI) IN IOWA070000003———
WINNAVEGAS CASINO070000014———
BLACKBIRD BEND CASINO070000017———
DES MOINES WATER WORKSIA7727031246,055——
IOWA-AMERICAN WTR CO-DAVENPORTIA8222001147,720——
CEDAR RAPIDS WATER DEPARTMENTIA5715093142,364——
SIOUX CITY WATER SUPPLYIA977805485,791——
ANKENY, CITY OFIA770905376,207——
WEST DES MOINES WATER WORKSIA778500773,959——
WATERLOO WATER WORKSIA079007469,504——
IOWA CITY WATER DEPARTMENTIA522507968,753——
COUNCIL BLUFFS WATER WORKSIA782008064,447——
DUBUQUE WATER WORKSIA312605259,667——
AMES WATER TREATMENT PLANTIA850303955,177——
URBANDALE WATER UTILITYIA778004245,605——
ISUIA850352842,000——
MARION MUNICIPAL WATER DEPTIA575103541,623——
CEDAR FALLS MUNICIPAL WATER UTILITIESIA070908440,713——
IA REGIONAL UTILITIES ASSOC (WAVERLY)IA099070137,820——
RATHBUN REGIONAL WATER ASSN (RATHBUN)IA040090033,000——
WAUKEE WATER SUPPLYIA257308031,823——
MARSHALLTOWN WATER WORKSIA646904227,591——
MASON CITY WATER DEPARTMENTIA175004827,338——
UNIVERSITY WATER SYSTEMIA522510126,684——
BURLINGTON MUNICIPAL WATERWORKSIA290905326,015——

Cities in Iowa

More on lead pipes in Iowa

Frequently asked about lead pipes in Iowa

Does Iowa have lead in the water?

Lead in drinking water comes from pipes, not the water source itself. Iowa has 1,817 public water systems, but utilities have not yet completed full inventories of lead service lines. Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk of having lead pipes.

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

Contact your water utility directly and ask about your service line material—they may have records even if a public inventory isn't available yet. Alternatively, a licensed plumber can inspect the pipe where it enters your home.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Iowa?

Most Iowa tap water is safe, but if your home has lead service lines or was built before 1986, lead may be present. The best way to know is to get your water tested and ask your utility about your specific service line.

What should I do if I'm worried about lead?

First, contact your water utility to ask about your service line and request a water test. If lead is detected or your pipes are old, use a certified lead-removal filter on your tap or let water run for 30 seconds before drinking. For health concerns, consult your doctor or pediatrician.