CANTON PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM Lead Service Line Inventory
Canton Public Water System serves approximately 107,113 people in Ohio. Like all US water utilities, it is required by federal law to create and maintain an inventory of lead service lines (LSLs)—the pipes that carry water from the main water line under the street into homes.
What we know about Canton's lead service lines
As of now, Canton Public Water System has not yet completed its lead service line inventory. This means the utility has not yet publicly reported:
- How many lead service lines exist in its service area
- How many service lines are galvanized steel (which can contain lead solder)
- How many are known to be lead-free
- A timeline or plan for replacing lead pipes
This is not unusual. Many water systems across the country are still in the early stages of inventory work. Federal rules, strengthened in 2023, require all utilities to finish their inventories by October 2024, with replacement plans due by October 2027.
Why this matters for your home
If your home was built before 1986—when lead solder in plumbing was restricted—there is a significant chance your service line or indoor plumbing contains lead. The risk is highest in homes built before the 1950s. Even if the utility has not yet inventoried your specific address, you can still take steps to protect your household.
Lead in drinking water is a real health concern, especially for young children and pregnant people. The CDC has detailed guidance on lead exposure risks.
What Canton residents can do now
You don't need to wait for the utility's inventory to be complete. Contact Canton Public Water System to:
- Ask whether your specific address has a lead service line on record
- Request a free or subsidized water test (many utilities offer these)
- Ask about replacement assistance programs or rebates
If you are concerned about lead exposure, speak with your pediatrician or doctor. The CDC also offers guidance on testing your water and reducing lead in your home.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility – Ask CANTON PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM about your address and any lead-related assistance programs.
- Test your water – Request a free test from the utility or get a certified lab test (usually $30–50).
- Know your home's age – Homes built before 1986 carry higher risk; homes built before 1950 are at greatest risk.
- Talk to your doctor – If you have young children or are pregnant, discuss lead exposure with your pediatrician or OB-GYN.
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 home in Canton have a lead service line?
Canton Public Water System has not yet completed its lead service line inventory, so the utility doesn't yet have a public list. Contact the utility directly and give them your address to see if they have information on your specific property. Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk.
How do I know if my water has lead?
The only way to know is to test. Ask Canton Public Water System if they offer free testing, or hire a certified lab to test your tap water (usually $30–50). Test the first water drawn in the morning, when lead is most likely to be present.
Is it safe to drink tap water while waiting for the inventory?
If you are concerned, use a filtered pitcher, point-of-use filter, or bottled water—especially for drinking and cooking. Talk to your doctor or the CDC website for guidance specific to your household.
When will Canton finish its lead service line inventory?
Federal law requires all water systems to finish inventories by October 2024. Contact Canton Public Water System for their specific timeline and any updates on progress.