Lead Service Line (LSL) Replacement Funding Program
For Minnesota Public Water Systems

Funding is now available to replace lead service lines (LSL) in Minnesota. The 2023 Minnesota Legislature and the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act are providing funding for LSL replacements in Minnesota. All funding for LSL replacement projects will be provided through the Minnesota Drinking Water Revolving Fund (DWRF) program.

Public Water Systems (PWS) can apply for funding through the DWRF to replace LSLs connected to their system.

Private residents are NOT eligible to apply for funding through the DWRF.

Based on current funding ability, LSL replacements will be done at no cost to the property owner for any privately owned portion of the LSL. The funding will provide a 100% grant for the privately owned portion. The publicly owned portion of the LSL will be replaced using a combination of grant funds and zero interest loan. After the work is completed, the PWS will receive a grant to pay off the loan portion.

How to apply for LSL funding

The first step to acquiring funding for LSL replacement projects is to apply to the MDH Project Priority List (PPL). Applications for the PPL are accepted on an annual rolling basis with the application due on the first Friday in May. Applications for the next round of funding (2026 PPL) are due on Friday May 2, 2025.

MDH has provided 2 example applications for LSL replacement projects:

1. LSL replacement project that is being done in conjunction with a watermain replacement project. This example can be found at LSLR Project Application Example-WM Project (PDF).
2. LSL replacement project that is being done as a stand-alone project. This example can be found at LSLR Project Application Example-LSL only project(PDF)

A complete PPL proposal submittal includes the cover letter and proposal with applicable information.

Proposals should be sent to Health.DWRFApplication@state.mn.us by Friday May 2, 2025.

Additional information regarding the DWRF program can be found at Drinking Water Revolving Fund General Information.

For more information about funding lead service line replacement projects, please contact Corey Mathisen at corey.mathisen@state.mn.us or 651-201-4494.

Submitting plans for LSL replacement

LSL replacement projects are different than standard drinking water infrastructure projects. Some projects may develop traditional engineering plans and specifications while others may not. MDH has developed documents to describe the required elements of what should be submitted to MDH for project certification. Submit the applicable completed form and other documents to corey.mathisen@state.mn.us

Projects with plans and specifications should use this form. Complete the form LSL Submission Guide Plans and Specs (PDF) and submit it with the plans/specs and other required documents.

Projects without plans and specifications should use this form. Complete the form LSL Submission Guide No Plans and Specs (PDF) and submit it with the other required documents.