FERNLEY PUBLIC WORKS Lead Service Line Inventory
About your water system
Fernley Public Works serves approximately 23,064 people in Fernley, Nevada. The system draws water from groundwater sources.
Lead service line inventory status
As of now, Fernley Public Works has not yet completed a public inventory of lead service lines in its distribution system. This means the utility has not yet published a count of how many homes may be connected to the water main through lead pipes—a requirement under the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Revisions.
Why this matters: A lead service line is the pipe that carries water from the public water main into your home. If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead. Knowing the inventory helps you understand your personal risk and take steps to protect your family.
What you can do now
Contact Fernley Public Works directly. Ask:
- Whether your specific address has a lead service line
- When the utility expects to complete its full inventory
- What the water system is doing to reduce lead exposure in the meantime
- Whether free or discounted testing kits are available
You can also request a copy of the utility's most recent water quality report (called a Consumer Confidence Report), which includes information about lead levels detected in the system.
If you're concerned about lead in your home water:
- Have your water tested. Home test kits are available at hardware stores, or contact your local health department for lab options.
- Use a water filter certified for lead removal (look for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification).
- Flush your pipes before drinking or cooking: run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes if water hasn't been used for several hours.
If you have young children or are pregnant, consult your pediatrician or doctor about lead exposure risks—they can advise based on your situation.
Next steps for residents
- Call Fernley Public Works and ask about lead service lines at your address
- Request a Consumer Confidence Report to see recent water quality data
- Get your water tested if your home was built before the mid-1980s
- Check your service line material if you can access it in your basement or yard (copper, plastic, or steel are safer; lead looks dull gray)
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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 Fernley Public Works with your address—they should have records. You can also look where the water line enters your home (usually basement or crawl space). Lead pipes are soft, dull gray, and can be scratched with a coin. Copper is shiny/reddish, and plastic is white or black.
Is there lead in Fernley's drinking water right now?
Ask the utility for its most recent Consumer Confidence Report, which includes test results for lead in the water. A lead service line doesn't automatically mean unsafe water—treatment and flushing also matter—but having one increases risk.
When will Fernley finish its lead service line inventory?
That's a good question to ask Fernley Public Works directly. The EPA requires utilities to complete inventories, but timelines vary. Getting an answer from them will help you plan next steps.
Can I get my water tested for lead?
Yes. You can buy a home test kit at hardware stores, or contact your local health department for approved labs in the Fernley area. Testing is usually affordable and gives you clear answers about your specific tap water.