North Fulton County Water System: Lead Service Line Information
North Fulton County water system serves approximately 434,517 people across the county. Like all US water systems, it is required by federal law to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect the public water main to individual homes.
What you need to know
A lead service line is a water pipe made of lead that runs from the water main under the street to your home's water meter or entry point. If your home was built or connected before the 1980s, there's a possibility your service line contains lead. Lead in drinking water is a health concern, particularly for young children and pregnant people, because it can affect development and learning.
North Fulton County's inventory status shows that the utility has not yet completed a full accounting of lead service lines in its system. This is common—many water systems across the country are still in the process of documenting their lead service line locations.
How to find out about your home
Your best first step is to contact North Fulton County directly. You can ask:
- Whether your address is served by a lead service line
- What the utility knows about your neighborhood's pipes
- When they expect to complete their full inventory
- Whether any lead service line replacement programs are available
The utility's customer service team can often tell you based on your address and the age of your home, even if the full inventory is still being compiled.
If you're concerned about lead in your water
The EPA recommends that if you think you might have a lead service line, you can have your water tested. A water test costs $20–50 and can tell you whether lead is present in your tap water right now. This is different from knowing whether you have a lead line—testing tells you about actual lead levels in the water you're drinking and using.
If testing shows elevated lead, simple steps like flushing your tap or using a filter can reduce exposure while you plan longer-term solutions.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your utility — Call North Fulton County water customer service and ask about lead service lines at your address
- Request your water be tested — Ask the utility if they offer free or low-cost testing, or contact your county health department
- Check your home's age — Homes built before 1980 are more likely to have lead lines
- Learn about replacement — If you do have a lead service line, ask your utility about any replacement programs or financial assistance available
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if I have a lead service line?
Contact North Fulton County water directly with your address—they can often tell you based on your neighborhood and home age. You can also have your water tested to check for lead levels, which is different from identifying the pipe material itself.
Is lead service line water unsafe to drink?
Not always. Water quality depends on many factors including pH and treatment. A water test will tell you if lead is actually present in your tap water. If it is, simple steps like flushing the tap can help reduce exposure.
When will North Fulton County finish mapping all lead service lines?
The utility's current inventory status shows work is ongoing. Call their customer service line to ask about their timeline and whether they have information for your specific address.
Can I replace my lead service line myself?
Lead service lines usually run under public roads and private property, so replacement requires permits and coordination with the utility. Contact North Fulton County to learn about formal replacement programs and whether financial assistance is available.