Lead and Copper Rule
Rule Summary
Lead and copper enter drinking water primarily through plumbing materials. Exposure to lead and copper may cause health problems ranging from stomach distress to brain damage.
In 1991, EPA published a regulation to control lead and copper in drinking water. This regulation is known as the Lead and Copper Rule (also referred to as the LCR). Since 1991 the LCR has undergone various revisions, see the Rule History section below.
The Lead and Copper Rule can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations. 40 CFR Part 141 Subpart I
EPA’s 2021 Revised Lead and Copper Rule better protects children and communities from the risks of lead exposure by better protecting children at schools and child care facilities, getting the lead out of our nation’s drinking water, and empowering communities through information. Improvements under the new rule include:
For more information, please visit: www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/lead-and-copper-rule
Lead and Copper Rule Identification Form
In accordance with the recent federal Lead and Copper Rule revisions, the City of Franklin must develop a service line inventory for all properties located within the City.
We are requesting your assistance in identifying the plumbing material used in your home or business.
To identify the plumbing material, you can check in two locations; underneath a sink or next to a water heater.
- Lead Pipe – If the scratched area is shiny and silver, your service line is lead. A magnet will not
stick to a lead pipe. Lead can also be distinguished from other materials by a “wiped” joint, which is a rounded ball of lead that connects the lead pipe to other materials. (Pictured to the right)
- Copper Pipe – If the scratched area is copper in color like a penny, your service line is copper. A magnet will not stick to a copper pipe.
- Galvanized Steel Pipe – If the scratched area remains a dull gray, your service line is galvanized steel. A magnet will stick to this pipe.