Lead Service Lines in Anniston, Alabama
About Anniston's Water System
Anniston's water system serves approximately 56,646 people. Like many older cities across the US, Anniston may have lead service lines—pipes that connect homes to the public water main. These lines were common in construction before lead was banned for drinking water pipes in 1986.
Current Inventory Status
As of now, Anniston has not completed a public inventory of lead service lines in the system. This means the water utility has not yet documented which homes have lead lines, which have other metals (like galvanized steel), or which are lead-free.
Why this matters: Without an inventory, homeowners have limited information about whether their home is at risk. The EPA requires all water systems to complete lead service line inventories and publish them by October 2024 (with possible extensions in some cases).
What You Should Know
Lead service lines pose a real health risk, especially for young children and pregnant people, because lead can leach into drinking water—particularly in homes with corrosive water or when pipes are disturbed. Even small amounts can affect child development.
However, most homes in most systems do not have lead lines. And there are steps you can take right now to reduce your exposure, regardless of whether your line is tested.
Next Steps for Residents
- Contact the utility directly: Call Anniston Water Works Service Board and ask whether your specific address has a lead service line. Keep a record of their response.
- Use a filter: Install an NSF-certified lead-removal filter on your tap if you're concerned. These are affordable and effective for drinking and cooking water.
- Run water before use: Let cold water run for 30 seconds to a few minutes before drinking or cooking if your water sits in pipes overnight.
- Check with CDC: For health questions about lead exposure, visit the CDC's lead and copper rule page or speak with your pediatrician.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Anniston have lead service lines?
Anniston has not yet published a public inventory, so it's unknown how many lead service lines exist in the system. Contact the water utility directly with your address to ask about your specific home.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Call Anniston Water Works Service Board and provide your address. They may have records. You can also have a plumber inspect the line outside your home or request a water test through the utility.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Yes, lead in drinking water can harm health, especially for young children and pregnant people. Contact your pediatrician or the CDC for health concerns. You can reduce exposure with filters and by running water before use.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead?
Install an NSF-certified lead filter on your tap, flush lines before drinking, and ask your utility about their lead service line replacement program or timeline.