Peoria, IL Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)

Article II of Chapter 15 (Health and Sanitation), Sections 15-31 through 15-41, is Peoria's lead paint control article. The code's reference note ties it to the Illinois Lead Poisoning Prevention Act, 410 ILCS 45/1 et seq., and cites 410 ILCS 45/15, which authorizes local ordinances that are equally or more restrictive.

The definitions in Section 15-31 set the thresholds. Lead-bearing substances are paint, varnish, lacquer, or other applied surface coating or putty containing more than one-half of one percent lead by weight of its nonvolatile content, or more than 0.7 milligram per square centimeter, or any lower standard that federal or state law later sets. Toxic heavy metal based coatings contain antimony, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, or selenium above 0.05 percent of total weight. A dwelling covers a structure designed or used for human habitation, a day-care center, or a school, plus porches, garages, carports, sheds, fences and gates. Surface reaches walls, window sills, handrails, furniture, toys and food utensils.

Section 15-32 makes it unlawful to sell, offer for sale, use or apply those substances on any dwelling surface. Section 15-33 requires containers to be labeled under state and federal law, including the Federal Hazardous Substance Labeling Act.

Under Section 15-34 the health officer can inspect dwelling surfaces on his own motion and test them whether or not they are in sound condition. Where paint or plaster is flaking, peeling, chipped or loose, he can take samples or use an in situ analyzer approved by the board of health. If the lead exceeds the Section 15-31 criteria or endangers occupants, the owner is notified. Where occupants show undue lead absorption, the officer must order removal of the lead materials or an acceptable covering, securely attached to a smooth, sound surface and consistent with building codes. Without reported absorption, removal or covering is the officer's call.

The owner's clock is in Section 15-35: ten days from the date of mailing of the notice. The officer can add up to 30 days if the owner shows a good faith effort and temporary repairs ease the danger.