Sussex County, DE Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)

5% lead content to any interior or exterior surface of a dwelling or dwelling unit, including fences and outbuildings on the premises. The prohibition covers new application, not just existing paint, and it reaches accessory structures like fences and outbuildings, not only the dwelling itself. It sits among the chapter's other interior standards, including the requirement that floors, walls, ceilings and other interior surfaces be kept in a good, clean and sanitary condition under Subsection C. 5% threshold can issue a correction order under § 71-27, and a structure that remains hazardous can be condemned under § 71-26 if it's found unfit for occupancy.

The ban applies regardless of when the structure was built, since § 71-10 requires every residential building's premises to meet Chapter 71's standards whenever a deviation threatens occupants' health and safety.