Lead Service Lines in Hillsboro
What you need to know
The City of Hillsboro water system serves about 92,600 people in Oregon. Like many US water systems, Hillsboro uses lead service lines—the underground pipes that connect the main water line in the street to homes. If your house was built before the 1980s, yours might be one of them.
Lead service lines pose a real health risk, especially for young children and pregnant people. Even small amounts of lead in drinking water can affect development. The good news: you can take steps to reduce exposure while your utility works toward replacement.
Current inventory status
Hillsboro has not yet published a detailed inventory of lead service lines in its system. This is common—many utilities across the country are still counting and mapping their lines. Without a public inventory, you won't know whether your specific address has a lead service line by checking online. Your best option is to contact the utility directly and ask.
What to do about your water
If you don't know your line type: Contact Hillsboro's water department and ask whether your property has a lead service line. They may have records even if the public inventory isn't complete yet.
While you wait for answers or replacement:
- Use a water filter certified to remove lead (look for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification).
- Let cold water run for 30 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking—this flushes out water sitting in the pipes overnight.
- Boiling does not remove lead; in fact, it can concentrate it.
If your child has health concerns: Talk to your pediatrician or contact the CDC for guidance on testing and next steps.
Funding and replacement
Federal funding has recently become available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help utilities replace lead service lines. Ask your water utility whether Hillsboro has applied for or received this funding and what their replacement timeline looks like.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask whether your address has a lead service line.
- Get a certified water filter to reduce lead in your tap water while you investigate.
- Learn your replacement status by asking Hillsboro about any federal grant funding or replacement program they've started.
- Check for updates periodically—utilities are required to share lead inventory information as it becomes available.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Hillsboro have lead in the water?
Lead doesn't naturally occur in Hillsboro's water source. The risk comes from lead service lines—pipes that may connect your home to the main water line. You'll need to contact the utility to find out if your property has one.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Call the City of Hillsboro water department and ask about your address. They may have records even if a public inventory isn't complete yet. Homes built before the 1980s are more likely to have them.
What should I do if my water has lead?
Use a water filter certified for lead removal (NSF/ANSI Standard 53), and flush your pipes by running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking. Contact your pediatrician if you're concerned about a child's health.
Is Hillsboro replacing lead service lines?
You'll need to ask the utility directly about their replacement plans and whether they've applied for federal funding to help pay for it. Replacement timelines vary by system.