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Lead Service Line Replacement Pilot Program
The City has applied for federal funding to launch a pilot program to replace approximately 575 private lead service lines (the pipe that brings water into the home from the water main in the street). Service lines are owned by the property owner; however, the City would like to use this pilot program to prepare for future lead service line replacement projects.
Lead in drinking water is normally associated with lead service lines and home plumbing. The City of Dubuque’s treated water contains an additive to reduce corrosion of lead and other pipe materials into drinking water. However, the best way to reduce risk is to remove and replace lead service lines. If present, elevated levels of lead in drinking water can cause serious health and developmental problems, especially for pregnant women and young children.
To be considered for participation, you must indicate your interest by completing the interest form or calling 563-690-6210. This will not commit you to replacing your lead service line, but you must fill out the interest form to even be considered for participation in the pilot program. Those selected for the pilot program will be notified by the Water Department and additional information will be provided for next steps.
Consent Form
If you already submitted an interest form and received a follow-up letter regarding a verification appointment and consent form, you may complete the consent form online. Please do not complete the consent form if you did not receive a letter directing you to do so.
What is a water service line?
A water service line is an underground pipe that connect water mains—the large pipes that carry the public water supply and typically run under or parallel to the street—to homes and other properties. It delivers clean, treated water from the City's water system to homes and businesses. Property owners are responsible for the water service line from the water main to the water meter inside the property. The City is responsible for the water main.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lead water service lines were used historically in plumbing systems because lead is a malleable and corrosion-resistant metal. It was a popular material for pipes due to its ease of use and durability. However, over time, it became evident that the use of lead in water service lines posed health risks.
In the United States, the use of lead pipes in new construction was banned in 1986 through amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act. However, this ban did not address existing lead pipes. Many older cities and towns in the Midwest and throughout the country continued to use lead pipes for water service lines well into the 20th century. We estimate there could be as many as 5,700 lead service lines in Dubuque.
Lead Service Line Inventory Map
The City of Dubuque has created an online map that shows the water line material between water mains, stop boxes, and meters. A spreadsheet with this information is also available.
While the information on the map and in the spreadsheet has been compiled from the best information the City has available, we realize there are bound to be errors. The data is provided "as is" and is expected to change as new information becomes available.
The City has created a form allowing property owners to submit a photo and information about their water service. Filling out the form will help us update and improve the accuracy of our information.
Online Tool
Use this online tool created by NPR to help determine if you have a lead service line. However, identifying the material of a service line can be challenging as plumbing codes vary and different pipe material and fittings were used during different decades. If you are unsure if your service line is lead, please complete the Water Service Line Reporter Form. Water Department staff will review your photo(s) and information to verify your service material. If needed, staff will follow-up with you to schedule an inspection to verify the service line material.
Dubuque's water is lead-free when it leaves the treatment plant. It also contains an additive to reduce corrosion of lead and other pipe materials into drinking water. However, lead can get into the water as it moves through customer-owned service lines and plumbing materials inside the house if they contain lead. Having a service line that contains lead does not mean you have elevated levels of lead in your water; however, there is no safe level of lead in drinking water.
To have your water tested, call the State Hygienic Lab at 1-800-421-IOWA to request a test kit. Cost is $32.50.
If you are concerned about lead in your drinking water, these are steps you may take to reduce your exposure:
- Run your water. Always flush plumbing before using water for drinking, cooking, or preparing infant formula. Let the water run from a cold-water tap until you feel a noticeable drop in its temperature, then run for another 30 seconds.This process replaces water in the house plumbing and service line with water from the water main.
- Use cold water. Never use water from the hot water tap for drinking, cooking or preparing infant formula. Use water from the cold water tap and heat on the stove or in the microwave.
- Clean your aerator. Regularly clean your faucet’s screen (also known as an aerator). Sediment, debris, and lead particles can collect in your aerator. If lead particles are caught in the aerator, lead can get into your water.
- Use a filter certified to remove lead. If you buy a water filter, be sure it is approved to remove lead, and be sure to operate it and maintain it according to manufacturer specifications. Read the directions to learn how to properly install and use your cartridge and when to replace it. Using the cartridge after it has expired can make it less effective at removing lead. Do not run hot water through the filter.
- Use your filter properly. If you have a water filter certified to remove lead (plumbed-in, tap-attached, or pitcher-type), replace the filters frequently, at least as often as the manufacturer recommends.
Source: U.S. EPA
Use this online tool to determine if your property is in the pilot program target area.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was signed by President Biden in November 2021 and includes $50 billion to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to strengthen the nation’s drinking water and wastewater systems—the single largest investment in clean water that the federal government has ever made. The City of Dubuque has applied, through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, to secure a level of BIL funding distributed to the State of Iowa to conduct a Lead Service Line Replacement Pilot Program. Additional details on program funding will be provided when exact funding is secured.
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Contact Us
For questions about the Lead Service Line Replacement Pilot Program, call the Water Department at 563-690-6210.