Water Quality & Safety
The DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management is dedicated to providing safe, clean, and reliable drinking water for our community.
Through rigorous monitoring, regular testing, and compliance with state and federal regulations, the department works to protect water quality from source to tap. This page provides information on water quality standards, testing processes, and the measures in place to safeguard public health and ensure customer confidence in DeKalb County’s water supply.
Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) Program
DeKalb County Watershed Management is committed to providing safe, clean drinking water. In compliance with the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) and Georgia EPD, we are identifying customer service line materials – the small pipes connecting homes and businesses to County water mains.
Update (Nov. 14, 2024): No lead pipes were found in DeKalb County's drinking water inventory.
Why It Matters
Some older properties may still have lead or galvanized steel service lines, which can allow lead into drinking water. Lead exposure is a serious health risk, especially for children and pregnant women.
What We Are Doing
- 2 Regular water testing (per Georgia EPD)
- Annual Water Quality Reports
- Corrosion control treatment to reduce lead
Resources:
Service Line Identification Tips
Backflow Prevention
What is Backflow?
Backflow occurs when water flows in the opposite direction of its intended path, which can allow contaminants to enter the water system.
Why It’s Important
Backflow prevention protects your water from potential pollutants caused by back pressure or back siphonage from private plumbing systems.
Who Needs It?
- Commercial & Multi-Family Properties: Required to install backflow prevention assemblies based on the hazard level
- Single-Family Homes: Required to install backflow prevention on irrigation systems
Where to Install
Backflow preventers must be installed after the water meter, before the first point of use. Indoor installations require prior approval from DWM’s Backflow Prevention Section.
How to Check or Install
A licensed Georgia plumbing contractor can verify if a backflow preventer is installed or install one for you.
After Installation
- Maintain and test your backflow preventer annually.
- Certified testers can be found through the Georgia Association of Water Professionals (GAWP) Backflow Tester Directory.
Contact
Backflow Prevention Section
180 Sams Street, 1st Floor, Suite 1200
Decatur, GA 30030
Appointments: 7:00 AM-3:30 PM
Phone: 404-687-4075
Email: DeKalbBackflow@DeKalbCountyGA.gov