DeKalb owns the main and the meter; the owner owns the pipe from the meter to the house.
The split
DeKalb County Watershed Management Property owner
DeKalb's service line sheet says ownership is shared. The county is responsible from the water main through the meter. The owner is responsible from the meter to the connection with the plumbing inside, typically near the main shutoff valve. Most meters sit in a pit on the property near the street.
Which side is leaking?
- Water in the street, or between the street and the meter: DeKalb's side.
- Meter spinning with the house shut off: your side.
- Meter pit flooding with your meter still: possibly the county's side.
County contacts
For questions about pipe material, DeKalb's lead and copper line is 770-270-6243. For a leak on the county's side, call DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management.
Questions
Will DeKalb fix a leak between the meter and my house?
No. That section is the property owner's.
Related
Sources: DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management service line ownership sheet, lead and copper FAQ and 2026 galvanized pipe notices; Atlanta News First, 15 January 2025; City of Decatur news release, 14 January 2025.
