Lead Service Lines in Cherry Creek Valley WSD
Cherry Creek Valley Water and Sanitation District (PWSID: CO0116175) serves approximately 22,000 people in Colorado. Like many water systems across the US, it may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main under the street to homes built before lead was phased out in 1986.
What you need to know
Lead service lines are a real concern. Water sitting in a lead pipe can pick up lead, which is especially risky for children under 6 and pregnant people. Even small amounts matter. The good news: if you know your line is lead, there are steps you can take to reduce exposure.
Cherry Creek Valley WSD has not yet completed a full inventory. As of now, the district has not inventoried its service lines or published a publicly available list. This is not unusual—many smaller water systems are still working through this process, especially after the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provided federal funding for lead line replacement and testing.
You don't need to wait for the inventory to act. Whether or not your water system has completed its survey, you can:
- Contact the district to ask about your specific property
- Request a water test (the EPA and CDC both recommend testing if your home was built before 1986)
- Have a plumber verify your service line material by visual inspection
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the single largest contributor to lead in drinking water. Replacing them is the only permanent fix. Colorado, like all states, must eventually replace all lead service lines, but the timeline depends on funding and local decisions.
If you're worried about lead right now—especially if you have young children—testing your water is the fastest way to know your actual exposure level. A simple test costs $20–50 and takes a few days.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Cherry Creek Valley WSD directly at their customer service line to ask: (1) whether your property is on the list for inventory, and (2) if they can tell you your service line material.
- Get your water tested for lead if your home was built before 1986. Instructions: visit the EPA's lead in drinking water page.
- If lead is found, ask your utility about replacement programs or state/federal funding. Colorado may have assistance available.
- Consult your pediatrician or the CDC if you have health questions about lead exposure.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does my house have a lead service line?
You can't tell by looking at the water coming from your tap. Contact your water utility (Cherry Creek Valley WSD) with your address—they may have records, or you can have a plumber do a visual inspection of the pipe where it enters your home. Testing your water is another way to find out if lead is actually getting into your drinking water.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead is a neurotoxin most dangerous to young children and pregnant people, even at low levels. For health-specific concerns, contact your doctor or the CDC. If you're concerned about your family, a water test is the best first step.
How do I test my water for lead?
Contact your local health department or water utility for a certified lab list, or visit the EPA's lead in drinking water page. A basic lead test costs $20–50 and takes several days. Some utilities offer free or subsidized testing.
Can lead service lines be replaced?
Yes. Replacement is the only way to permanently fix a lead line. The cost typically falls on the homeowner, but federal and state funding programs are expanding. Contact Cherry Creek Valley WSD to ask about replacement assistance or state programs in Colorado.