Virginia Lead Service Line Replacement Programs
Virginia water systems reported 3,621 lead and 10,266 galvanized service lines that must be replaced (EPA, Q3 2026). Below: the state rule on who pays, and every Virginia 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newport News City of Newport News | 0 | 3,160 | Not confirmed |
| Richmond City of Richmond | 1,956 | 28 | Cost share |
| Luray Town of Luray | 0 | 1,520 | Not confirmed |
Compare: lead lines in every state · cities with the most lead pipes · free programs in Virginia
Common questions
Who pays to replace lead service lines in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Water systems in Virginia reported 3,621 lead service lines, 10,266 galvanized lines that need replacement and 493,070 lines of unknown material to EPA (Q3 2026), across 147 reporting systems.
Where can I get help paying in Virginia?
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.