Virginia Beach, VA Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)

City Code § 16-32 makes it unlawful to apply lead-based paint to an interior surface, or an exterior surface children can reach, of any dwelling, dwelling unit or other building occupied or used by children. Existing surfaces in dwellings and dwelling units used or occupied by children that already carry lead-based paint or lead-bearing substances must be removed or covered with a covering the code enforcement administrator approves. "Lead-based paint" is defined at § 16-31 as any paint or similar substance exceeding 0.5% lead by weight when dry, and "surfaces" covers window sills, frames, walls, doors, ceilings, stairs and handrails. Doctors, labs and hospitals that diagnose or suspect lead poisoning must report it to the code enforcement administrator within 24 hours under § 16-33.