PORTLAND WATER BUREAU Lead Service Line Inventory
Portland Water Bureau serves approximately 666,200 people across the Portland metropolitan area in Oregon. Like all US water utilities, it is required by federal law to maintain and publicly report an inventory of lead service lines—pipes that connect homes to the water main.
What this inventory shows
A lead service line is the underground pipe that carries water from the public water main into your home. Even if your home was built recently, you could have a lead service line if it was installed before the 1980s (lead was banned in 1986, but older pipes remain in service across the country).
Currently, Portland Water Bureau's lead service line inventory shows 0 lines inventoried. This does not mean the utility has no lead service lines—it means the inventory data has not yet been publicly reported or entered into this database. Many utilities are still in the process of identifying and cataloging their service lines, especially older systems with limited historical records.
Why this matters
Lead in drinking water poses real health risks, particularly for young children and pregnant people. The CDC recommends testing your water and having your pipes inspected if your home was built before the 1990s or if you're unsure about your service line material.
Finding your service line status
Your best next step is to contact Portland Water Bureau directly. They can tell you:
- Whether your address has a lead service line
- What materials your service line is made of
- What replacement or mitigation options are available
Even if your service line is lead, you can reduce exposure through flushing, point-of-use filters, or line replacement.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Portland Water Bureau to ask about your specific address's service line material
- Request a free or low-cost water test if available through your utility or health department
- If your line is lead, ask about replacement programs—many utilities offer cost-sharing or funding
- For health concerns, speak with your doctor or contact the Oregon Health Authority
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Portland have lead service lines?
Yes, lead service lines exist in many older Portland homes and buildings. Your utility can tell you if your address has one—contact Portland Water Bureau directly with your address to find out.
How do I know if my water has lead?
The only way to know is to test your water. A lead service line doesn't guarantee contamination, but it increases the risk. Ask Portland Water Bureau about free or low-cost testing in your area.
What should I do if my home has a lead service line?
Contact Portland Water Bureau to discuss replacement options, costs, and any available utility programs or municipal funding. In the meantime, you can reduce exposure by flushing your tap water and using filters certified to remove lead.
Is lead in water dangerous for children?
Yes. The CDC recommends reducing lead exposure for children under 6 and pregnant people. Talk to your pediatrician about testing and risk reduction if you're concerned about your water.