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Default rule and exceptions
Split at the external shut-off valve (the b-box, usually under the parkway). Per the Municipal Code the City owns the service line from the main to that valve; the homeowner owns it from the valve into the home.
| Party | What they are responsible for |
|---|---|
| Property owner | City of Chicago: "From the external shut-off valve into the home, the service line is the property and responsibility of homeowners." |
| City / public agency | City of Chicago: "the service line beginning at the water main to the external shut-off valve, usually located under the parkway, is owned and maintained by the City." |
| Exceptions | None on record |
What the source says
Last verified against the primary source on Sep 10, 2026.
Per the Municipal Code, the service line beginning at the water main to the external shut-off valve, usually located under the parkway, is owned and maintained by the City. From the external shut-off valve into the home, the service line is the property and responsibility of homeowners.
City rules rest on state law. Read Illinois's sidewalk statute, quoted verbatim, or see all 50 states in one table.
Common questions
Who pays for water service line in Chicago, IL?
Responsibility is shared. City of Chicago: "From the external shut-off valve into the home, the service line is the property and responsibility of homeowners."
What is this based on for Chicago, IL?
This verdict is sourced to Equity-Focused Lead Service Line Replacement (quoting the Municipal Code) and 2 sources in total, each independently re-checked before publication.
Sources
- Equity-Focused Lead Service Line Replacement (quoting the Municipal Code)official · verified-official · accessed 2026-09-10
- Department of Water Managementofficial · verified-official · accessed 2026-09-10
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