LeadPipeLookup

State overview

Lead service lines in Wisconsin

Aggregated lead pipe inventory data for all 10,597 public water systems in Wisconsin, serving approximately 5,082,597 residents.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
10,597
Population served
5,082,597
Known lead lines
0
Unknown material
0

Lead Service Lines in Wisconsin

Wisconsin serves about 5.1 million people through nearly 10,600 water systems. Most are small systems serving rural communities and towns.

What we know about lead in Wisconsin water

Current data shows no confirmed lead service lines reported across the state's water utilities. However, this doesn't mean lead pipes aren't present—it means utilities either haven't found them yet or haven't reported findings to the state.

Many Wisconsin systems are still in the process of surveying their underground pipes. Lead service lines were common in US water systems built before the 1980s, particularly in older cities and industrial areas. Wisconsin's mix of urban centers (Milwaukee, Madison) and rural systems means the risk varies significantly by location.

Why this matters

Lead can leach into drinking water when it contacts acidic water or corroded pipes. Even small amounts matter, especially for children under six and pregnant people. There's no safe level of lead exposure for children.

Wisconsin's drinking water is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNRE) under the federal Lead and Copper Rule. Utilities must test water at the tap in homes most likely to have lead pipes, and they must notify the public if lead levels exceed action thresholds.

What you should do now

Check your home's pipes. If your house was built before 1980 (especially before 1950), lead service lines are more likely. You can't see the service line—it runs underground from the street to your home—but a plumber can inspect it or check your home's records.

Know your water system. Contact your local utility directly and ask:

  • Do they have lead service lines in their system?
  • When was your neighborhood's water infrastructure installed?
  • What are the results of their most recent lead testing?
  • Does your utility have a lead service line replacement program?

Get your water tested if you're concerned. Many utilities offer free testing; otherwise, a certified lab costs $20–50.

Reduce exposure while you investigate. Run cold tap water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking if water has sat in pipes overnight. Use cold water for cooking and drinking (hot water leaches lead faster).

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your local water utility with questions about lead service lines in your area
  • Hire a plumber to identify your home's service line material if it was built before 1980
  • Request a free or low-cost water test from your utility
  • Learn more from the Wisconsin DNRE drinking water page

Largest public water systems in Wisconsin

UtilityPWSIDPopulationKnown leadUnknown
NEW POST055295301———
ONEIDA #1 OR SITE #1055295703———
NEW ODANAH055295102———
MENOMINEE CULTURAL MUSEUM050595513———
MIDDLE VILLAGE055295507———
LAC DU FLAMBEAU TRIBAL CAMPGRD050595401———
MOLE LAKE055295601———
NEOPIT055295510———
MAPLE PLAIN055295901———
HO-CHUNK CHE-NUNK055295016———
LAC DU FLAMBEAU055295401———
CRICKETS PUB AND CAFE050595402———
HERTEL WEST055295902———
KESHENA055295508———
FORESTRY CENTER050595512———
FRANKS FIELD055295104———
BLACKWELL COMMUNITY055295207———
DRY TOWN055295310———
CEX' HA CI055295015———
HILLSIDE055295706———
BIRCH HILL055295103———
HO CHUNK VILLAGE055295013———
CARTER COMMUNITY055295205———
INDIAN HEIGHTS055295012———
RED CLIFF NORTH055295802———

Cities in Wisconsin

More on lead pipes in Wisconsin

Frequently asked about lead pipes in Wisconsin

Does Wisconsin have lead in the water?

Wisconsin has no confirmed lead service lines reported so far, but most utilities are still surveying their pipes. Lead can be present in older homes and systems even if not yet officially documented. Contact your local utility to ask about lead in your specific area.

How do I know if my house has a lead pipe?

Homes built before 1980 (especially before 1950) are higher risk. You can't see the service line yourself—it's buried underground—but a plumber can inspect it or check property records. You can also contact your water utility; they may have pipe records.

Is it safe to drink Wisconsin tap water?

Wisconsin tap water is regularly tested and regulated. Most people receive safe water, but risk depends on your home's age, your local utility, and your service line material. If you're concerned, get your water tested or contact your utility directly.

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

Start by contacting your water utility and asking about lead service lines in your area. If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your pediatrician or doctor. The CDC website has detailed guidance on reducing lead exposure at home.