Lead isn’t a utility issue, it’s a community issue.

While utilities may be the most familiar with the background and challenges surrounding the problem, they also do a good job of ensuring their systems meet the requirements of the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). However,the LCR only accounts for the public water infrastructure that water utilities are responsible for maintaining. It doesn’t account for the millions of miles of private infrastructure and fixtures in private homes, businesses, and schools across the country.

An AWWA study estimated that more than six million lead service lines remain in the United States, with ownership of individual pipes often split between the utility and customer.

This ebook serves as a guide for elected officials, city management, and city leaders who may not be familiar with the lead issue. This guide explains the current regulations, the three biggest stakeholders and their different perspectives, as well as some solutions and resources that communities can use to protect public health of all citizens. Public health threats are especially significant for children younger than 6 and pregnant or nursing mothers, who are the most sensitive populations when it comes to lead exposure.