Pre-1978 homes in Palo Alto must comply with federal RRP rules and California H and S Code 17920.10, which treats defective lead paint as a substandard housing condition.
Most homes built in Palo Alto before 1978 contain lead-based paint. Federal EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting rules require that contractors performing more than 6 square feet of interior or 20 square feet of exterior disturbance be EPA Lead-Safe Certified and use lead-safe work practices. California Health and Safety Code 17920.10 declares deteriorated lead paint and lead-contaminated dust and soil to be substandard housing conditions enforceable by the local building and code enforcement agency. The Palo Alto Public Works and Code Enforcement teams can order abatement of peeling paint, chipping surfaces, and contaminated soil at rental properties in particular. Federal disclosure under the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (42 USC 4852d) requires sellers and landlords of pre-1978 housing to deliver the EPA pamphlet and known lead information. Contact 650-329-2100.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle lead paint.
See how Palo Alto's lead paint rules stack up against other locations.
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