SIOUX FALLS Lead Service Line Inventory
Sioux Falls serves about 216,000 people. Like all US water utilities, it is required by federal law to create and maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main under the street to homes and buildings.
What is a lead service line?
A lead service line (LSL) is the underground pipe that carries water from the public water main into your home. Lead pipes can leach lead into drinking water, especially if water is corrosive or sits in pipes overnight. Lead exposure is a real health concern, particularly for young children and pregnant people.
Most homes built before 1986 are at higher risk of having lead service lines, though they exist in homes built after that too.
Sioux Falls and lead service lines
Sioux Falls has not yet completed a full inventory count of lead service lines in its system. This means the utility is still in the process of identifying which properties have lead, galvanized (which can also contain lead), or non-lead service lines.
Until that work is finished, you won't be able to look up your specific address in a public database. However, this does not mean your water is unsafe to drink right now—Sioux Falls treats its water to reduce corrosion, which limits how much lead can enter your home's pipes.
What should you do now?
Contact Sioux Falls water utility directly to ask about your service line. They may have records on file about your property even if the full inventory isn't public yet. You can also:
- Have your water tested for lead (a simple lab test, often free or low-cost through the health department)
- Use point-of-use filters certified for lead removal if you want extra protection while waiting for inventory results
- Flush your pipes before drinking or cooking if water has sat unused for more than 6 hours
Funding for replacement
Federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is being distributed nationwide to help utilities replace lead service lines. Check with Sioux Falls directly about whether replacement programs are available in your area.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Sioux Falls water utility (605-367-8000 or check their website) to ask about your service line status and any available testing
- Request a water test for lead from your local health department or a certified lab
- Ask about LSL replacement programs if you have a lead service line and want it removed
- Check back periodically as the utility completes its full inventory—the database may be updated in coming months or years
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 my house has a lead service line?
Contact Sioux Falls water utility with your address—they may have records. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home (it will look dull gray and is soft enough to scratch with a coin). The utility's full inventory will eventually be public.
Is Sioux Falls tap water safe to drink right now?
Sioux Falls treats water to reduce corrosion and monitors lead levels. If you're concerned, you can request a free or low-cost lead test through the local health department. Until you know your service line status, flushing pipes before drinking and using point-of-use filters adds extra protection.
What should I do if my child was exposed to lead in drinking water?
Contact your pediatrician or the South Dakota Department of Health. The CDC also has guidance on lead exposure in children. A blood test can check lead levels.
Will my lead service line be replaced for free?
Federal funding is available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but programs and eligibility vary by utility. Contact Sioux Falls water utility to ask about replacement assistance in your area.