Water services

The Environmental Protection Agency has set a goal to replace any lead service lines in the state by 2033. The EPA has required water systems in the United States to complete an inventory of service line materials. The service line materials inventory is available to the public. 

You can check the materials of your service line at maps.umn.edu/LSL.

To learn more about the EPA's goals to replace lead service lines, visit epa.gov/water.

Questions?

serviceline@shoreviewmn.gov 

The City flushes water hydrants each spring. This can lead to stagnant water and sediment buildup in the water mains.

Flushing hydrants ensures good water quality throughout the system. Hydrant flushing begins at the first week of May and continues through the end of May, weather permitting. Crews flush from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The change in water flow patterns resulting from hydrant flushing may stir up mineral deposits in City water mains. During hydrant flushing, it is not unusual to periodically experience discolored water, pressure changes and/or an increased chlorine odor.

Sediment present in the water is not a health issue, but it may impact the taste, odor or color of the water. If discolored water is present, you may correct the problem by opening all cold water faucets and allowing them to run at the same time until the water clears. Residents are also encouraged to check the color of their water prior to doing laundry. Discolored water may stain clothes, particularly whites.

For more information about hydrant flushing and other water quality questions, contact the Public Works Dept. at 651-490-4650.

2026 Spring Flushing Zones Map(PDF, 1MB)

FAQs

Why does the city flush hydrants?

Hydrant flushing:

• Improves drinking water quality by removing sediments from the mainline through the hydrant
• Identifies any issues with hydrant and related valves
• Determines weaknesses in the water distribution system
• Identifies inadequate water volumes and pressures in the main lines

When does the city flush hydrants?

The city typically flushes in late April.

Why is my water discolored?

Tap water can sometimes change color after hydrant flushing. This is normal and safe for drinking. When we open hydrants, the water in the mainline flows out at a high velocity. This dislodges sediment particles from the pipe. The discoloration is the suspended iron and manganese particles mixing with water that has not had time to settle.

What should I do if my water is discolored?

Run water through your faucets for a few minutes to clear the pipes. Discolored water is safe for drinking but may discolor your laundry.

Water hardness averages 15 grains or "moderately hard." Use this number when setting your water softener. Home water softeners are personal preferences. We do not provide recommendations for home water softener units.

The water treatment plant removes iron and manganese and provides high-quality water.

What's inside?

1. Forced draft aeration

The plant has two forced draft aerators. These aerators provide preliminary oxidation to the iron and release any dissolved gasses present in the water. They will also help limit the need for chlorine use in the drinking water.

2. Conventional filtration

The plant also has six conventional filters that filter iron and manganese from the water after aeration.

3. Backwash reclaim

Backwash water from the filters is sent to one of the two 250,000-gallon reclaim basins. The iron and manganese that is removed from the water is settled out in these basins. The clarified water is then suctioned from the top of this basin and pumped to the beginning where it is reused. This process allows for very little waste in the treatment process. 

Public works mails leak cards quarterly to households that may have a leak. Leaks can be in toilets, faucets, and irrigation systems. Some leaks can be detected by you and others will need a plumber.

This report is for January 1 to December 31, 2024.

Shoreview's Water Quality Report(PDF, 372KB)

Do you currently have a well that you’re not using? Homes connected to city water may still have an unsealed well in the basement well room or in the yard. A well that is no longer in use may be a threat to health, safety, and the environment.

The City of Shoreview operates six groundwater wells to provide drinking water for its residents and other communities. In order to protect the groundwater supply from contamination, the City of Shoreview has developed a Wellhead Protection plan in association with the Minnesota Department of Health. 

Private wells that are no longer being used and are not sealed can lead to contamination of the drinking water supply. 

• If you are no longer using your well, join in the city's efforts to protect the groundwater by sealing your well.
• Minnesota law states that any private well that is no longer being used must either have a permit to be maintained or must be sealed.
• Cost-sharing assistance is available through Ramsey County, visit their website here.
• Private wells that are still being used for water or irrigation should be monitored and maintained.

Resources:

- MN Department of Health: Owner's Guide to Wells

- MN Department of Health: Well Sealing 

- MN Pollution Control Agency: Septic systems

- MN Pollution Control Agency: Underground storage tanks