US Lead Water Pipes to be Replaced in 10 Years Under Proposed EPA Rule

Water systems would be required to replace at least 10% of their lead pipes annually until they’re eliminated nationwide.

Workers install new water pipes in Walnut Creek, California. The EPA’s proposed rule calls for water systems to replace a minimum of 10% of their lead pipes annually. — Workers install new water pipes in Walnut Creek, California. The EPA’s proposed rule calls for water systems to replace a minimum of 10% of their lead pipes annually.
Photographer: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

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By Bobby Magill

November 30, 2023 at 11:00 AM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

The “vast majority” of lead drinking water pipes would need to be replaced within 10 years under proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements announced Thursday, a top EPA water official said.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed rule calls for water systems to replace a minimum of 10% of their lead pipes annually with a goal of replacing 100% nationwide within 10 years—a dramatic update to a Trump-era rule that took effect in 2021. The EPA expects to finalize the new rule in 2024.