Understanding the EPA’s revised lead and copper rule

Bloomington Utilities is working to complete an inventory on water service lines as part of the Minnesota Department of Health’s new federal requirements for public drinking water systems. Staff also plan to incorporate material verification into everyday operations moving forward.

New requirements: The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new requirements aim to address lead in drinking water by identifying all public and private service pipe materials and replacing any lead and certain galvanized pipes found. A service line is a pipe that connects buildings to the City-owned water main located below the street.

Current City ordinance: Bloomington passed an ordinance in February 1960 requiring copper pipe for all service lines two inches in diameter and smaller. Since lead was never used for larger service lines, and most of Bloomington’s drinking water system was built after 1960, Utilities is not aware of any lead or galvanized lines that require replacement.

Notification, if needed: Property owners will be notified in 2024 only if their service line material is unknown or requires replacement.