City of Carrollton, TX
Home MenuLead & Copper Rule Revisions
City-Owned Water Service Lines
The City of Carrollton has confirmed that all City-owned water service lines are lead-free. However, the material for some service lines on private properties remains unknown.
EPA Lead and Copper Rule
In alignment with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule Improvements and the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) , the City of Carrollton has taken proactive steps to protect public health by ensuring safe and clean drinking water for all residents.
The revised rule emphasizes the identification and replacement of lead service lines and requires all water systems to create an inventory of service lines and prioritize the removal of lead-based lines.
Water Service Line Inventory
The City of Carrollton has compiled a comprehensive water service line inventory to identify and document all water service lines within the system.
This inventory serves as a critical tool to support regulatory compliance, enhance transparency, and assist in the systematic replacement of service lines where applicable.
Water Service Line Map
The Water Service Line Map is best viewed on a desktop computer.
The Water Service Line Map is an interactive tool that allows residents to view the material(s) of water service lines and determine if any lead-based lines are present.
- How to Read the Map: Users can search by address, and the map will display the service line material associated with each property.
What if my property's water service line is marked "unknown"?
If your property's water service line material is listed as "unknown," the City may need to conduct further investigation. You may be contacted to help identify the line material.
How Do I Check My Water Service Line?
Follow these simple steps to identify the material used on the portion of the service line you own:
- Locate the Water Meter
-
Remove the Water Meter Cover
(You will need a crescent wrench, a screwdriver, or a water meter key.)
After removing the cover, clear away any dirt to expose the service line on the side closest to your home. -
Scratch and Test with a Magnet
(You will need a penny and a magnet.)
Gently scratch the service line with a penny or key (do not use a knife), then check whether a magnet sticks. - Report your results to the City of Carrollton
Determine Your Service Line Material
Lead Pipe
- Scratched area is shiny silver and flakes.
- A magnet will NOT stick.
Copper Pipe
- Scratched area is copper in color, like a penny.
- A magnet will NOT stick.
Galvanized Pipe
- Scratched area will remain dull gray.
- A magnet WILL stick.
Health Effects of Lead
Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups.
- Infants and children may experience decreases in IQ and attention span.
- Lead exposure can cause new learning and behavior problems or worsen existing ones.
- Children of women exposed to lead before or during pregnancy may have an increased risk of these health effects.
- Adults may have an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney or nervous system problems.
Get children tested to determine lead levels in their blood
A family doctor or pediatrician can perform a blood test for lead and provide information about the health effects of lead. State or county departments of health can also provide information about how a child’s blood can be tested for lead.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends public health action when the level of lead in a child’s blood is 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) or more.
Tips to Reduce Lead Exposure
Replacing lead or galvanized service lines
If the property owner is planning on replacing the portion of the service line on their side, notify Carrollton Building Inspection at 972-466-3225 or visit cityofcarrollton.com/buildinginspection.