Lead Service Lines in Yakima, Washington

What you need to know

The City of Yakima Water Division serves about 112,900 people. Like many older water systems across the US, Yakima may have lead service lines—pipes that connect the water main under the street to homes. Lead can leach into drinking water when it sits in these pipes, especially if the water is corrosive.

Right now, the City of Yakima has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. This means the total number of lead, galvanized, and non-lead pipes in the distribution network is still unknown.

Why this matters

Lead exposure carries real health risks, especially for children under 6 and pregnant people. Even small amounts can affect development and learning. If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance you have a lead service line—but it's not certain. The only way to know for sure is to get your water tested or have your pipes inspected.

What the City of Yakima is doing

Federal law requires all water systems to create and maintain an inventory of lead service lines. Yakima is required to complete this work as part of broader safe drinking water standards. The EPA has set deadlines for larger systems to finish inventories and develop replacement plans, though those deadlines have shifted in recent years.

The City has received funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help pay for lead service line replacement and water system improvements. Check with Yakima Water Division directly for the latest timeline on their inventory and any replacement program details.

Test your water and pipes

You don't have to wait for the full city inventory to protect your family:

• Contact Yakima Water Division to ask about the age and material of your service line. They may have historical records.
• Get your water tested for lead. The City can provide a free or low-cost test kit, or you can use a certified lab.
• Consider a point-of-use filter (like a pitcher or faucet filter) certified for lead reduction while you investigate further.

Next steps for residents

• Call or visit the City of Yakima Water Division website to ask about your service line and request a free water test.
• If your home was built before 1986, assume your service line could be lead and take precautions (flush lines, use filters, get water tested).
• Report any discolored or cloudy water to the City—it may indicate corrosion or sediment.
• For health concerns, talk to your pediatrician or contact the Washington State Department of Health.

```json [ { "q": "Does Yakima have lead in the water?", "a": "Yakima Water Division serves about 112,900 people and may have lead service lines from older infrastructure. The City is still completing its full inventory. Your risk depends on whether your home has a lead service line—most common in homes built before 1986. The best way to know is to test your water or contact the City about your pipe material." }, { "q": "How do I know if I have a lead service line?", "a": "Contact Yakima Water Division directly—they may have records of your service line material. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the pipe where it enters your home, or request a water test through the City. Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk." }, { "q": "Is Yakima water safe to drink?", "a": "Yakima Water Division treats and monitors the water supply to meet federal safe drinking water standards. However, lead from old service lines can enter water after it leaves the treatment plant. If you're concerned, get your water tested—the City can provide a free kit." }, { "q": "When will Yakima replace lead service lines?", "a": "The City has not yet published a timeline for lead service line replacement. Contact