Water Service Line Inventory

The Tyler Water Utilities' (TWU) water service line inventory map is now live, and the inventory has been submitted to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). TWU partnered with KSA Engineers as part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's national initiative to inventory the types of materials of all customers' water service lines in the City's distribution system by October 16, 2024. The inventory is an important step in protecting public health and minimizing the risk of lead entering drinking water from service pipes and fixtures in people’s homes.

Lead is NOT in our drinking water when it leaves treatment plants. The risk for lead to enter water comes from pipes and plumbing that are made from lead. The water's chemistry is carefully adjusted and monitored at the plant before it is distributed to prevent corrosion and minimize this risk. However, the best way to eliminate the risk of lead from entering drinking water is to eliminate lead pipes and plumbing.

With this data, TWU is creating a comprehensive replacement plan to prioritize infrastructure upgrades and pursue available funding. The plan aims to complete all necessary replacements by 2037.

• Customers with lead service lines, galvanized steel lines, or lines of unknown material will be notified by mail no later than Friday, November 15, 2025.

• Notices will include information on pipe flushing, lead exposure, and further testing options.

• TWU has already started replacing identified City-owned lead service lines. Property owners will receive advanced notice before any City-side replacement begins.

• If your private line is made of lead or galvanized steel requiring replacement, the City will offer to coordinate a private-side replacement at the homeowner’s expense.

The water service line inventory is part of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) 2021 Revised Lead and Copper Rule. Lead service lines were banned in 1986 because of Federal Safe Drinking Water Act amendments. On Oct. 8, the Biden-Harris Administration issued a final rule requiring drinking water systems across the country to identify and replace lead pipes within 10 years.

Click on the image below to view a detailed map of the Water Service Lines:

Information About the Updated Lead & Copper Rule

On December 16, 2021, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced steps to strengthen the regulations on lead in drinking water.

On August 4, 2022, the EPA released guidance to help communities identify pipes that connect drinking water to homes and other buildings that might contain lead. Under this guidance, the City of Tyler will be developing an inventory of over 40,000 service lines. This inventory will be available online to the public.

The goal of the rule revision is to replace all lead service lines. Having an accurate inventory will help the City continue to replace lead service lines as they are located.

Rules and guidelines continue to be updated by the EPA and cooperating agencies, and the City will stay apprised of changes in order to maintain our high-water quality level.

Do you have questions about the Water Service Line Inventory? Ask them below.