DAYTON PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM Lead Service Line Inventory
Dayton Public Water System serves approximately 141,407 people in Ohio. If you're concerned about lead in your drinking water, you've come to the right place. This page explains what the utility knows about lead service lines in its system and what you can do.
What we know right now
Dayton Public Water System has not yet published a detailed lead service line inventory. This means the utility is still in the process of identifying which homes and buildings are connected by lead service lines—pipes that carry water from the main water line to individual properties.
Lead service lines were commonly installed in older neighborhoods before the risks were fully understood. Dayton's water system pulls from surface water sources, which is important because certain water chemistry can either increase or decrease the risk of lead leaching into your tap water.
Why this matters
A lead service line is one potential pathway for lead to reach your tap water. The water utility controls the part of the line up to your property; you control the part on your property. Even if your service line is made of lead, the risk varies depending on your water's pH, treatment, and how long water sits in pipes.
If you have health concerns, especially if you have young children in your home, talk to your pediatrician or contact the CDC's lead hotline at 1-800-CDC-INFO.
Finding your own service line
You don't have to wait for the utility to finish its inventory. You can:
- Call Dayton Public Water System and ask them directly whether your home has a lead service line. Keep a record of the date and what they tell you.
- Check your property records at the Montgomery County Auditor's office.
- Hire a plumber to inspect the pipe where it enters your home (it usually runs under the basement floor or outside the foundation).
Protecting your water in the meantime
If you suspect or know you have a lead service line, flush your pipes before drinking or cooking: run the cold water tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes until water runs clear. Use cold water for drinking and cooking—hot water draws more lead from pipes. A certified water filter (NSF/ANSI Standard 53) can also reduce lead levels.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Dayton Public Water System to ask if your address has a lead service line on record
- Request updates on when their full lead service line inventory will be available
- If you have young children, discuss water safety with your pediatrician
- Consider a water test ($15–$30 at most labs) if you're concerned about current 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 Dayton have lead in the water?
Dayton Public Water System treats its water and is required to keep lead levels below the EPA's action level. However, lead service lines—if present on your property—can be a source of lead in tap water. The utility is still identifying which homes have these lines.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Call Dayton Public Water System and ask them directly. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the pipe entering your home, or check property records at the Montgomery County Auditor's office.
Is it safe to drink water from a lead service line?
Risk depends on several factors including water treatment, pH, and how long water sits in the pipes. Flushing your tap before drinking, using cold water, and filtering can all reduce exposure. If you have health concerns, consult your pediatrician.
When will Dayton replace lead service lines?
Dayton Public Water System has not yet published a replacement timeline. Contact the utility to ask about their plans and whether your home is scheduled for replacement or inspection.