California Lead Service Line Replacement Programs
California water systems reported 3 lead and 12,440 galvanized service lines that must be replaced (EPA, Q3 2026). Below: the state rule on who pays, and every California utility with at least 1,000 such lines or a confirmed program.
Federal Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (40 CFR 141 Subpart I)
This state has no law we found that decides who pays for the private side of a lead service line, so each utility sets its own policy. Under the federal rule, utilities must replace every lead line and galvanized line that needs it within ten years of November 1, 2027, but the rule does not make utilities pay for the owner's side. Federal infrastructure money passed through the state revolving fund can pay for it, so many utilities offer free or discounted replacement, especially for low-income owners.
Mandatory? No state owner mandate found; the federal rule requires most utilities to replace all lead and galvanized-requiring-replacement lines by 2037.
Funding: State Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (federal lead service line money).
Sources: epa.gov
| Utility | Lead | Galv. | Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Bay MUD East Bay MUD | 0 | 3,935 | Owner pays |
| Western Heights (Yucaipa) Western Heights Water Company | 0 | 1,462 | Not confirmed |
Compare: lead lines in every state · cities with the most lead pipes · free programs in California
Common questions
Who pays to replace lead service lines in California?
This state has no law we found that decides who pays for the private side of a lead service line, so each utility sets its own policy. Under the federal rule, utilities must replace every lead line and galvanized line that needs it within ten years of November 1, 2027, but the rule does not make utilities pay for the owner's side. Federal infrastructure money passed through the state revolving fund can pay for it, so many utilities offer free or discounted replacement, especially for low-income owners.
Is lead service line replacement mandatory in California?
No state owner mandate found; the federal rule requires most utilities to replace all lead and galvanized-requiring-replacement lines by 2037.
How many lead service lines are in California?
Water systems in California reported 3 lead service lines, 12,440 galvanized lines that need replacement and 549,950 lines of unknown material to EPA (Q3 2026), across 161 reporting systems.
Where can I get help paying in California?
Start with your water utility's program; the table on this page shows what we've confirmed. State money flows through: State Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (federal lead service line money). If your utility has no program, see our guide to paying for replacement.