The City of South Hutchinson Announces Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) Program

July 18, 2024

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently rolled out new regulations for its existing Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) policy. One of the new requirements states that all public water systems must complete an inventory of water service lines, both publicly and privately owned, within their jurisdiction to help identify remaining lead service lines. This inventory of information is not only important for public water systems like the City of South Hutchinson to know, but it is also essential to protecting and improving public health in the district and the surrounding area. Explore this webpage to learn more about the newly updated policy and how it impacts customers of the district.

What is the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR)?

The LCR was first passed in 1991, but there have been multiple revisions to the policy since its passing. The latest round of updates came in November 2023. 

In the newest version of the law, public water systems are now required to develop (and maintain) a Lead Service Line (LSL) inventory. This information will be used to help develop a future replacement plan for all known LSLs. For now, however, public water systems only need to focus on developing the inventory and recording all known LSLs in their service area. The creation of the inventory must be completed by October 2024. 

More information about developing a replacement plan is anticipated to come later following the completion of the inventory. However, for now, federal and state agencies recommend water districts only focus on developing and maintaining the inventory. 

Conducting the Water Service Line Inventory

For most homes and buildings built after 1988, the presence of lead is less prevalent. However, there is still a chance that lead material could have been used in residential service lines following this date. For this reason, it is important for all property owners in the district to conduct their own on-site inspection and determine what material type their water service line is made of – lead, copper, galvanized steel, or plastic.

To complete the EPA’s required service line inventory, the City will need customers and property owners’ assistance with verifying service line material. Through basic tests or observation, property owners can provide information to the City about what type of material their water service line is made of – lead, copper, galvanized steel, or plastic. Follow these basic steps to determine what your service line material is and use the online self-reporting tool to share your findings with the City.  

1. Find the water shut-off valve on your property – located likely in your basement or utility closet.
2. Look for the pipe that comes through the outside wall or floor of your home that connects the water meter to your home or building.
3. If the pipe is painted, use sandpaper or a key to expose a small section of the metal.
4. Determine your service line material using the following reference guide.
5. Send us your results using the survey below or submit the Water Line Inspection Form in writing to the city hall office. Responses must be returned ASAP.