Palo Alto vs Sunnyvale
How do lead paint rules compare between Palo Alto, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Palo Alto and Sunnyvale have similar restriction levels.
Palo Alto, CA
Santa Clara County
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.
View full Palo Alto rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale follows federal EPA RRP Rule and California Title 17 for lead-safe work practices on pre-1978 homes. Contractors must be lead-certified for disturbances over 6 square feet interior.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Palo Alto | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-1978 homes | Disclosure required | - |
| Federal rule | EPA RRP certification | - |
| State rule | H and S 17920.10 | - |
| Abatement trigger | Deteriorated paint | - |
| Disclosure | 42 USC 4852d | - |
| Federal Rule | - | EPA RRP 40 CFR 745 |
| Trigger | - | Over 6 sq ft interior |
| State Law | - | H and S Code 17920.10 |
| Seller Disclosure | - | Required pre-1978 |
| Certification | - | EPA and CDPH |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Palo Alto FAQ
Do I need a certified contractor?
Yes for most pre-1978 renovation work that disturbs more than minimal paint; DIYers are exempt only for their own homes under some rules.
Can my landlord ignore peeling paint?
No. Under H and S 17920.10 deteriorated lead paint is a substandard housing condition subject to code enforcement.
Sunnyvale FAQ
My Sunnyvale house is from 1960. Can I repaint myself?
You can do your own work on your owner-occupied home, but if you rent it out or have a child under 6 or pregnant resident, lead-safe work practices under the RRP rule apply.
Who enforces this in Sunnyvale?
Sunnyvale at (408) 730-7500 handles most complaints.
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