San Diego, CA Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)

The City of San Diego Lead Hazard Prevention and Control Ordinance was developed to eliminate lead hazards and prevent lead poisoning through lead-safe housing. Owners of rental properties built before January 1, 1979 must perform a lead hazard evaluation when a dwelling unit becomes vacant, using a certified lead inspector or risk assessor. If lead hazards are identified, the owner must complete lead hazard reduction activities before re-renting the unit. Renovators disturbing paint containing lead concentrations equal to or greater than 1,000 ppm or 0.5 mg/cm2 on pre-1979 structures must use lead-safe work practices regardless of whether compensation is involved. This is stricter than the federal RRP Rule, which only applies to compensated work. The City's Environmental Services Department enforces the ordinance through the Lead Safety and Healthy Homes Program. California's Title 17 (California Code of Regulations) also requires CDPH-certified lead professionals. Federal EPA Section 402 certification is required for all renovation firms. Landlords must provide the EPA 'Protect Your Family' pamphlet and California DPH disclosure forms to tenants.