San Diego Municipal Code Div. 10 Lead Hazard Prevention and Control Ordinance

(“Abatement of Lead Hazards” added 5–14–2002 by O–19063 N.S.) (Amended and retitled to “Lead Hazard Prevention and Control Ordinance” and Added Sections 54.1007 to Sections 54.1015 on 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S.)

The Council of the City of San Diego finds and declares that:

(a) Problem: In the City of San Diego, between 1992 and 2003, there were
781 reported cases of childhood lead poisoning (greater then 15 µg/dL)
and almost 300 children in 2003 with blood lead levels greater then
10 µg/dL in San Diego County. These figures are not considered a true
representation of the problem, as only a small percentage of children are
tested (state average is 20%). The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention has declared that the most effective approach to lead poisoning
is prevention by eliminating lead hazards from children’s environment.

(b) Health Effects: Lead is most harmful to young children because it
interferes with the development of the brain, as well as other organs and
systems such as the kidneys and nervous system. Lead poisoning has been
linked to reduced IQ, attention deficit disorder, hearing loss, impaired
growth, and reading and learning disabilities. Recent research has revealed
that even low levels of lead exposure can cause a permanent decrease in a
child’s IQ. In adults, high lead levels can cause high blood pressure,
headaches, digestive problems, memory and concentration problems,
kidney damage, mood changes, nerve disorders, sleep disturbances, and
muscle or joint pain.

(c) Housing Stock: Lead-based paint, and associated lead-contaminated dust
and lead-contaminated soil, is the number one source of lead poisoning.
According to the 2000 United States census, approximately sixty-six
percent (310,000) of the housing units in the City of San Diego were built
before 1979, and approximately twenty-eight percent (135,000) of the City
of San Diego’s housing stock was constructed before 1960.

(d) Prevention is Key: Childhood lead poisoning is preventable. There is no
medical treatment to reverse the effects of lead poisoning. Household lead
hazards can be permanently eliminated by abatement or controlled
through proper maintenance and lead-safe work practices.

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(e) Lead Paint Ban: The Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the use of lead in concentrations greater than 600 parts per million in residential paint after February 27, 1978. For this reason, paint applied to a dwelling unit or structure prior to January 1, 1978, is presumed to contain lead unless lead-based paint testing proves it is not lead-based paint. All paint applied to a steel structure is presumed to contain lead unless lead-based paint testing proves it is not lead-based paint.

(f) Lead Hazard: A lead hazard found on any property, premises, dwelling
unit, structure, or steel structure within the City of San Diego is a public
nuisance.

(g) Lead Safe Work Practices: Dust generated in disturbance of lead paint
during renovation and repair is a principal source of lead dust exposure to
our children and community. Unless the dust is contained, it permeates the
carpet, ductwork, and soil, so that children and adults may breathe or
ingest the dust for months and years to come.

(h) Authority: The implementation of Division 10 and the associated
enforcement will assist in reducing the presence of lead hazards and,
thereby, help the City of San Diego in achieving its goal of eliminating
childhood lead poisoning. Under Senate Bill 460, which modified
California Civil Code section 1941.1 and California Health and Safety
Code sections 17920.10, 17980, 105255, and 105256, the existence of
lead hazards in housing can constitute a violation of State Housing Law
and maintenance or construction activities which generate lead hazards
are prohibited. Amended Health and Safety Code sections 17961, 17980,
105255, and 105256 provide local jurisdictions with specific authority to
correct and prevent lead hazards. Division 10 establishes the City of
San Diego’s enforcement mechanism for lead-related provisions of the
California Civil Code and Health and Safety Code, and provides
additional regulation and enforcement tools which will help reduce the
exposure of children and others to lead hazards.

(i) Tenant Protection: The Council acknowledges that California Civil Code
section 1942.5 prohibits certain acts of retaliation by a landlord against a
tenant because of the tenant’s complaint to an appropriate agency
regarding a residential unit which contains lead hazards.

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(j) Necessary Service: The performance of a lead risk assessment in the interior and on the exterior of a dwelling unit constructed prior to January 1, 1978, as well as the common areas of the dwelling unit, is a necessary service and/or repair to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the occupants of the dwelling unit and the public. (Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.) (Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

The purpose of Division 10 is:

(a) to prevent, identify, and remedy lead hazards in housing before children
are poisoned;

(b) to protect occupants and the public from exposures to lead hazards;

(c) to provide standards to implement lead hazard control requirements;

(d) to strengthen the authority of local agencies responding to lead paint
poisoning cases; and

(e) to establish and promote lead-safe work practice standards for owners,
maintenance workers, and all persons involved in lead hazard control and
activities such as remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, and repair that
disturb lead paint, in order to protect occupants and the public
from exposure to lead hazards.
(Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

All defined terms in Division 10 appear in italics, except for the terms Building Permit and Demolition/Removal Permit which refer to those terms respectively as used in the Land Development Code and which, consistent with the Land Development Code, are not italicized in this Division. For purposes of Division 10, the following terms have the following meanings:

Accredited laboratory means a laboratory which is accredited through the United
States Environmental Protection Agency National Lead Laboratory Accreditation
Program.

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Adjacent properties means properties that abut the property at which activities

which disturb or remove paint have been, are being, or will be performed, or where a lead hazard has been identified.

Blood lead reference value means the current blood lead concentration level set

by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention which identifies children with higher levels of lead in their blood as compared with the blood lead level in most children.

CDPH means the California Department of Public Health.

Certified Lead Abatement Contractor means a Certified Lead Supervisor as defined in title 17, section 35008 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be

amended, and any Certified Lead Worker as defined in Title 17, section 35009 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended, who works under the direction of a Certified Lead Supervisor, as may be amended.

Certified Lead Inspector/Assessor has the meaning given in title 17, section 35005 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

Certified Lead Project Monitor has the same meaning given in title 17, section 35006 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

Certified Lead Sampling Technician has the same meaning given in title 17, section 35089 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

Certified Renovator has the same meaning given in 40 C.F.R.§ 745.90, as may be

amended.

Child means any person less than six years of age.

Child-care facility means a facility that provides nonmedical care for children less than 18 years of age in need of personal services, supervision, or assistance essential for sustaining the activities of daily living or for the protection of the individual on less than a 24-hour basis. This includes day care centers and employer-sponsored child care centers.

Clearance inspection has the same meaning given in title 17, section 35013 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

Clearance Inspection Report means a report that documents the abatement activity and includes the information outlined in 24 C.F.R. 35.1340(c).

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Containment barriers has the same meaning given in title 17, section 35016 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

De minimis levels means an area representing less than ten percent of any building component with a small surface area such as a window sill, baseboard, or trim; or a portion of large surface such as a wall, ceiling, or floor with an area less than: (1) two square feet in any one interior room or space of a dwelling unit or structure; or (2) twenty square feet on an exterior surface.

Department means the City Environmental Services Department.

Deteriorated lead-based paint has the same meaning given in title 17, section 35022 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

Director has the same meaning as set forth in section 11.0210 of this Code.

Disturb or remove paint means any action that creates friction, pressure, heat, or a

chemical reaction upon any paint on an interior or exterior surface so as to abrade, loosen, penetrate, chip, cut through, remove, or eliminate paint from that surface. This term shall include all lead hazard correction activities, all demolition activities, and all surface preparation activities performed upon an interior or exterior painted surface.

Dwelling unit has the same meaning as set forth in section 113.0103 of this Code and for purposes of this Division 10, also includes multiple dwelling unit, single dwelling unit, Accessory Dwelling Unit, and Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit as those terms are defined in section 113.0103 of this Code.

Enforcement official has the same meaning as set forth in section 11.0210 of this Code.

Exterior means the outside of a dwelling unit, structure, or steel structure and the areas around it within the boundaries of the property, including the exterior of any detached structure, and including, but not limited to, freestanding and common walls, stairways, fences, light wells, breezeways, sheds, garages, patio covers, decks, and any similar structures.

HEPA means a High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter.

Home improvement store means all retail stores which sell any home
improvement products including, paint and paint removal products, construction
and building materials, tools, and hardware.

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HUD Guidelines means the most recent version of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development “Guidelines for the Evaluation and Control of Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Housing,” and when referenced in this Division, includes the practices and standards in those HUD Guidelines without regard to whether a structure is target housing under 15 U.S.C. § 2681.

Imminent lead hazard means a lead hazard which creates a present and immediate danger to life, property, health, or public safety.

Landlord means an owner, lessor, or sublessor who receives or is entitled to receive rent for the use or occupancy of any commercial or residential rental property in the City of San Diego, and the agent, representative, or successor of any of the foregoing.

Lead means metallic lead and all inorganic and organic compounds of lead.

Lead-based paint or lead paint has the meaning given in title 17, section 35033 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

Lead-based paint testing means: (1) testing of surfaces to determine the presence of lead-based paint performed by an independent Certified Lead Inspector/Assessor, or Certified Lead Sample Technician under the supervision of a Certified Lead Inspector/Assessor, in accordance with the HUD Guidelines, and which testing includes bulk paint samples analyzed by an accredited laboratory; or (2) testing by an XRF.

Lead-containing paint means paint or other surface coatings which contain an amount of lead equal or greater than 1,000 parts per million (ppm) or 0.5 milligrams per square centimeter (mg/cm2), but an amount less than lead- based paint.

Lead-contaminated dust has the same meaning given in title 17, section 35036 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

Lead-contaminated soil has the same meaning given in title 17, section 35036 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

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Lead hazard means: (1) the existence of deteriorated lead-based paint over a surface area larger than de minimis levels in the interior or exterior of a dwelling unit or structure constructed prior to January 1, 1978; or (2) the existence of deteriorated lead-based paint, in the interior or exterior of a dwelling unit or structure constructed prior to January 1, 1978, over a surface area smaller than de minimis levels but which, as determined by an enforcement official, is likely to endanger the health of the public or the occupants of the dwelling unit or structure; or (3) the disturbance of lead-based paint or presumed lead-based paint without required worksite preparation measures set forth in section 54.1006(b) of this Code; or (4) the creation or maintenance of any other condition which may result in persistent and quantifiable lead exposure; or (5) the presence of lead- contaminated dust or lead-contaminated soil.

Lead hazard evaluation has the same meaning given in title 17, section 35038 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended, and for purposes of this Division, includes a record of the cause of paint deterioration written on HUD Form 5.2 per HUD Guidelines (1995 edition, or any subsequent edition adopted by CDPH), or equivalent form for each lead paint hazard identified by those identified in title 17 section 36000(a)(1). The cause of paint deterioration is to be included in the lead hazard evaluation report summary.

Lead hazard evaluation report means a report that documents a lead hazard evaluation and includes the requirements listed in title 17, Division 1, Chapter 8, Article 16, Section 36000(a)(4)(A-D).

Lead paint contaminants means substances containing lead paint or presumed lead-based paint which are potentially hazardous to human health or the environment including, but not limited to, paint chips and paint-containing soil, debris, dust, abrasives, fumes, or water.

Lead risk assessment has the same meaning as in title 17, section 35047 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended.

Minor repair and maintenance activities has the same meaning given in 40 C.F.R. § 745.83 , as may be amended.

Occupants means tenants or other persons legally authorized to occupy or partially occupy the property.

Owner means the person or persons owning property or any improvements thereon in the City of San Diego and includes such person’s legally authorized agent or representative and any successors in interest.

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Paint means any paint, varnish, shellac, or other similar coating.

Person means any natural person, municipal, county, or state agency to the extent allowable by law, or any firm, joint venture, joint stock company, business concern, trust, organization, club, association, partnership, company, or corporation, or the officers, agents, employees, managers, representatives, heirs, executors, administrators, successors, or assigns of any of them or any other entity which is recognized by law as the subject of rights and duties.

Premises has the same meaning as set forth in section 54.0202 of this Code.

Presumed lead-based paint has the same meaning given in title 17, section 35043 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended, and for purposes of this Division, includes paint applied to steel structures unless tested in accordance with that section 35043 and determined to be below the lead concentration limits established by that section 35043.

Prohibited practices means work practices prohibited under section 54.1006 of this Code.

Property means real property, together with any and all improvements thereon.

Public nuisance has the same meaning as that set forth in section 11.0210 of this Code.

Reasonable relocation costs means costs incurred during temporary relocation which are in excess of the costs that otherwise would be incurred while the occupant is residing at the dwelling unit, and may include the excess costs of lodging, food if cooking facilities are unavailable during relocation, and transportation when displaced residents need to travel further for necessary activities than they otherwise would from their dwelling unit. Reasonable relocation costs are not the total of such expenses but only those costs which are above the costs that would be incurred in the absence of required relocation.

Regulated area means an area in which work is being performed that disturbs or removes paint and to which access is restricted in order to prevent migration of paint contaminants. Regulated area shall also include any area contaminated with lead paint as a result of a violation of the containment requirements set forth in section 54.1006 of this Code, until such area has been decontaminated and cleared in accordance with section 54.1006 of this Code.

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Renovation means any modification of all or part of an existing dwelling unit, structure, or steel structure which modification disturbs or removes paint.

Renovator means any person who performs for compensation a renovation.

Responsible person has the same meaning as set forth in section 11.0210 of this

Code, and for purposes of this Division, a contractor determined by the Director to be responsible for causing or maintaining a public nuisance or a violation of this Division.

Steel structure means any structure that is not a building and that has exterior surfaces made of steel or other metal including, but not limited to, bridges, billboards, walkways, water towers, steel tanks, and roadway or railway overpasses.

Structure has the same meaning as that set forth in section 113.0103 of this Code.

Underlying defect means any condition or circumstance which generates, creates, or sustains a lead hazard.

Window treatment means any activity which involves the removal of window sashes when lead-based paint or presumed lead-based paint is present on the window sash or adjacent window trim components (such as jambs, sills, or stops).

XRF means a portable X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer. (Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.) (Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

(a) It is unlawful to create and/or maintain a lead hazard or allow a lead hazard to remain upon any property, premises, surfaces, dwelling unit, structure, steel structure, or appurtenances.

(b) It is unlawful for a responsible person to fail to reduce or eliminate a lead
hazard.
(Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)
(Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

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(a) Any person who disturbs or removes lead paint, presumed lead-based paint, or lead-containing paint from any surface in the interior or on the exterior of a dwelling unit or structure shall use lead-safe work practice standards as set forth in section 54.1006.

(b) Any person who disturbs or removes paint in any amount in the interior or
on the exterior of a dwelling unit to correct a lead hazard where a child
with a blood lead level greater than or equal to the Blood Lead Level
Reference Value resides or receives services from a child care facility
shall use lead-safe work practice standards as set forth in section 54.1006.

(c) The failure to use lead-safe work practice standards as set forth in
section 54.1006 shall constitute a violation of this Division. The lead-safe
work practice standards set forth in this Division are in addition to, and are
not a substitute for, any requirements under state or federal law.
Compliance with the lead-safe work practice standards set forth in
section 54.1006 does not negate responsibility for a violation of
section 54.1004.
(Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)
(Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

The lead-safe work practice standards in section 54.1006 apply to all activities which disturb or remove paint which is lead-based paint, presumed lead-based paint, or lead-containing paint.

(a) Temporary Relocation Required Unless Occupant Protection Conditions
Satisfied

(1) Occupants of a dwelling unit shall be temporarily relocated, before
and during the course of activities which disturb or remove paint,
to a suitable, decent, safe, comparable, and similarly accessible
dwelling unit that does not have a lead hazard, unless:

(A) the activities will not disturb presumed lead-based paint,
lead-based paint, lead-contaminated dust or lead-
contaminated soil; or

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(B) the activities affect only the exterior of the dwelling unit,
and windows, doors, ventilation intakes, and other openings
in or near the regulated area are sealed during the course of
the activities and cleaned afterward, and at least one
entrance is maintained free of lead-contaminated dust,
lead-contaminated soil, and lead paint contaminants.

(C) the activities in the interior of the dwelling unit will be
started and completed during the daytime within eight
consecutive hours, the regulated area is contained so as to
prevent the release of lead-contaminated dust and lead
paint contaminants into other areas, and the activities do
not create other safety, health, or environmental hazards
(e.g., exposed live electrical wiring, release of toxic fumes,
or on-site disposal of hazardous waste); or

(D) the activities in the interior of the dwelling unit will be
completed within five consecutive days, the regulated area
is secure so as to prevent the release of lead-contaminated
dust and lead paint contaminants into other areas, the
activities do not create other safety, health, or
environmental hazards, and, at the end of work on each
day, the regulated area and the area within at least ten feet
of the regulated area is cleaned to remove any visible dust
or debris, and occupants have safe access to sleeping areas
and bathroom and kitchen facilities.

(2) The owner of a dwelling unit and any responsible person who has
failed to implement lead-safe work practice standards set forth in
section 54.1006, such that relocation is required, are jointly liable
for the reasonable relocation costs associated with the temporary
relocation of occupants when required under section 54.1006.

(b) Worksite Preparation

(1) The regulated area shall be prepared to prevent the release of dust,
and contain any lead containing paint chips, presumed lead-based
paint chips, lead-based paint chips, lead-contaminated dust, lead-
contaminated soil, and lead paint contaminants from activities
which disturb or remove paint in a manner at least as protective as
the procedures contained in HUD Guidelines Chapter 8 (“Resident
Protection and Worksite Preparation”), as may be amended.

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(2) Practices that minimize the spread of lead-contaminated dust, lead containing paint, presumed lead-based paint chips, lead-based paint chips, lead-contaminated soil, and lead paint contaminants shall be used during preparation of the regulated area for work which disturbs or removes paint.

(3) Only those persons employed or otherwise engaged in the conduct
of activities which disturb or remove paint which is lead-based
paint, presumed lead-based paint, or lead-containing paint or
perform clearance inspection activities are permitted to enter a
regulated area until after activities which disturb or remove paint
which is lead-based paint, presumed lead-based paint, or lead-
containing paint have been completed and a clearance inspection
as provided in section 54.1006(g) has been completed and
demonstrates that the regulated area is not contaminated.

(c) Specialized Cleaning

After activities which disturb or remove paint or abate a lead hazard have
been completed, the regulated area shall be cleaned by using:

(1) wet misting and HEPA vacuuming as provided in HUD Guidelines
Chapter 14.

(2) wet cleaning with all purpose general detergents or lead-specific
detergents and rinsing as provided in HUD Guidelines Chapter 14
(“Cleaning”), as may be amended.

(d) Visible Lead Paint Contaminants

All visible lead paint contaminants shall be cleaned up daily and removed
from the regulated areas prior to completion of the activities which
disturb or remove paint.

(e) High Risk Paint Disturbance

Any person who disturbs or removes paint which is lead-based paint or
presumed lead-based paint in an area greater than defined as a minor
repair and maintenance activity, or in any area in the interior or exterior
of a dwelling unit to correct a lead hazard shall utilize the lead-safe work
practice standards established in 40 C.F.R. § 745.85 and the following:

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(1) The cleaning verification process described in 40 C.F.R.
§745.85(b)(1)(ii) is optional.

(2) The clearance testing as provided in 40 C.F.R. § 745.85(c) and
section 54.1006 is required.

(3) Warning signs shall remain posted until the regulated area has passed a clearance inspection as provided in section 54.1006(g).

(f) Disposal

All waste generated from activities which disturb or remove paint, which
contains lead containing paint, lead-based paint or presumed lead-based
paint, is deemed hazardous waste under Title 22 of the California Code of
Regulations, as may be amended, and must be disposed of lawfully.

(g) Lead-Safe Work Practice Clearance Inspection Standards

(1) Visual Inspection. A visual inspection to verify the absence of
visible dust or debris must be performed by the person who
disturbs or removes paint upon the completion of all activities
which disturb or remove paint in excess of two square feet in an
interior room or space, or on an exterior surface area in excess of
ten square feet, or any window replacement or window treatment
under the following circumstances:

(A) where the paint is presumed lead-based paint; or

(B) where lead-based paint testing performed on the paint
revealed lead-containing paint.

Where the paint is lead-containing paint but not presumed lead-
based paint or lead-based paint, the person who disturbed or
removed paint as described in (g)(1) shall record the results of the
visual inspection on the form provided by the City (Form ES-127),
and shall maintain that form for a minimum of three years and
shall make all such forms available to the City of San Diego upon
request.

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(2) Clearance Inspection. A clearance inspection must be performed
upon the completion of all activities which disturb or remove paint
in excess of two square feet in an interior room or space, or on an
exterior surface area in excess of ten square feet, window
replacement or window treatment under the following
circumstances and after visual inspection:

(A) where the paint is presumed lead-based paint; or

(B) where lead-based paint testing performed on the paint revealed lead-based paint.

A copy of the CDPH Form 8552 for each clearance inspection
shall be submitted to the City of San Diego at

Lead-Safe@sandiego.gov or by mail to:

Environmental Services Department
Lead Safety and Healthy Homes Program
9601 Ridgehaven Court, Ste 310
San Diego, CA 92123

Submittal of the 8552 form to the City of San Diego does not
satisfy the requirement of Title 17 of the California Code of
Regulations, as may be amended, for submittal of the 8552 form to
the CDPH.

(3) The lead-safe work practice clearance inspection shall be
performed only by a Certified Lead Inspector/Assessor or Certified
Lead Project Monitor.

(4) All clearance inspection procedures shall be in compliance with
40 Code of Federal Regulations part 745.227, as it may be
amended from time to time, and shall meet title 17 of the
California Code of Regulations clearance guidelines, as it may be
amended from time to time.

(5) A clearance inspection shall either:

(a) Meet the “Recommended Minimum Number and Location
of Single-Surface Dust Samples” for the appropriate
clearance category in Table 15.1 of Chapter 15 of the 1995
HUD Guidelines (“Clearance”), as may be amended; or

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(b) Be conducted in accordance with the procedures described
in the most recent revision of Chapter 15 of the HUD
Guidelines, as may be amended.

(h) Prohibited Practices

It is unlawful to use prohibited practices while conducting activities which
disturb or remove paint including, but not limited to:

(1) acetylene or propane burning and torching;

(2) scraping, sanding, or grinding without containment barriers or a
HEPA local vacuum exhaust tool;

(3) hydro-blasting or high-pressure wash without containment
barriers;

(4) abrasive blasting or sandblasting without containment barriers or a
HEPA local vacuum exhaust tool; or

(5) heat guns operating above 1,100 degrees fahrenheit. (Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19730 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.) (Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

(a) Presumption

For all dwelling units constructed prior to January 1, 1978, it is presumed
that the paint in the interior or on the exterior of the dwelling unit is lead-
based paint.

(b) Owner’s Opportunity to Rebut Presumption

The owner of a dwelling unit constructed prior to January 1, 1978, may
apply to the Department to have such dwelling unit exempted from the
presumption contained in section 54.1007(a) when either:

(1) lead-based paint testing results demonstrate that no lead paint is
present in the interior or on the exterior of such dwelling unit; or

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(2) documentation from a Certified Lead Inspector/Assessor
demonstrates that alterations have been made to the dwelling unit
and such alterations have resulted in the removal of all lead-based
paint in that dwelling unit.

(c) Owner’s Duty to Correct; Work Plan Required

(1) Lead hazards unlawful. The existence of a lead hazard in any
dwelling unit is hereby declared to constitute a condition
dangerous to life and health. It is unlawful for a responsible person
to allow a lead hazard to exist. The owner of a dwelling unit shall
take action to prevent the occurrence of a lead hazard and shall
expeditiously correct a lead hazard, upon receiving notice from the
Director, or notice by any other means, of its existence, in
accordance with section 54.1006. If the lead hazard is caused in
whole or in part by an underlying defect the owner of the dwelling
unit shall correct the underlying defect to prevent a further lead
hazard.

(A) Within 30 days of receiving notice from the Director of the
existence of a lead hazard, the owner of a dwelling unit
shall submit to the Director or designee a statement of
intent and a work plan to correct the lead hazard, a
proposed work schedule, and the methods by which the
owner will accomplish compliance with this Division,
including compliance with the temporary relocation
requirements of section 54.1006, if applicable.

(B) Upon receipt of the work plan, the Director may require
any additional information or plan adjustments to ensure
such conformance with the requirements of this Division.
All work plans shall require written approval of the
Director. Written approval may be by electronic mail or
other writing.

(2) The owner of a dwelling unit shall correct all identified lead
hazards according to the approved work plan and schedule,
including any revisions required by the Director, and complete the
clearance inspection within thirty (30) calendar days of the
approval date of the work plan, unless:

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(A) the Director determines that a lead hazard is present, which
lead hazard constitutes an immediate threat to the health
and safety of occupants of the dwelling unit, in which case
the owner of the dwelling unit shall comply with the
Director’s directives; or

(B) the owner of the dwelling unit files a request for a time
extension summarizing (i) the owner’s efforts to date to
comply with the approved work plan and schedule;
(ii) demonstrating the need for additional time to correct
the lead hazard; (iii) a proposed adjusted work schedule;
(iv) the methods by which the owner will accomplish
compliance with this Division including compliance with
the temporary relocation requirements of
section 54.1006(a); and the Director approves an extended
time for compliance with this Division. The Director shall
have sole discretion to approve or disapprove time
extension requests.

(3) Within seven days after obtaining the clearance inspection report,
the owner of a dwelling unit shall provide proof of compliance
with section 54.1007 by submitting a copy of the clearance
inspection report to the City of San Diego at: by email to Lead-
Safe@sandiego.gov, or by mail to the assigned inspector for the
case at:

Environmental Services Department
Lead Safety and Healthy Homes Program
9601 Ridgehaven Court, Ste 310
San Diego, CA 92123

Submittal of the clearance inspection report to the City of
San Diego does not satisfy the requirement of Title 17 of the
California Code of Regulations, as may be amended, for submittal
of the 8552 form to the CDPH.

(4) The owner of a rental dwelling unit determined to be in violation of
section 54.1007 may be required by the Director to implement
maintenance and monitoring schedules as provided in a Lead Risk
Assessment Report prepared by the City under title 17,
section 36000 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be
amended, and Chapters 5 and 6 of the HUD Guidelines.

Ch. Art. Div.
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San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5: Public Safety, Morals and Welfare (2-2025)

(d) Administrative abatement of a lead hazard shall be in accordance with the
procedures provided in San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 1, Article 2,
Division 6.

(e) Summary abatement of an imminent lead hazard shall be in accordance
with the procedures provided in San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 1,
Article 2, Division 7.

(f) Judicial abatement of a lead hazard shall be in accordance with the
procedures provided in San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 1, Article 2,
Division 2.
(Added 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)
(Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

Relocation

(a) Where occupant relocation is not required under section 54.1006, a
responsible person who has created or maintained a lead hazard is
responsible for implementing occupant protection measures to reduce or
eliminate occupant or public exposure to lead hazards as required by the
City. A responsible person shall complete the occupant protection
measures no later than 10 calendar days from the date of notice from the
Director.

(b) Where occupant relocation is required under section 54.1006, the
responsible persons are responsible for the reasonable relocation costs of
any occupants displaced as a result of a judicial, administrative, or
summary abatement action under this Division and must follow applicable
requirements of state law.

(c) If reasonable relocation costs are paid by the City, the costs shall be
assessed against the responsible person as an administrative or summary
abatement cost or as part of a judicial action and may be recovered under
the procedures Chapter 1, Article 3, Division 3 (Recovery of Abatement
Costs) of this Code.
(Added 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)
(Retitled from “Procedures for Occupant Relocation” to “Procedures for Onsite
Occupant Protection and Offsite Temporary Relocation” and amended 1-23-2025
by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

Ch. Art. Div. 5 4 10 18

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5: Public Safety, Morals and Welfare (2-2025)

Housing

For all rental dwelling units constructed prior to January 1, 1978, the responsible person shall conduct a visual inspection for deteriorated paint each time a tenant vacates the dwelling unit and prior to re-occupancy of the dwelling unit. The responsible person shall document the results of the visual inspection in writing on a form made available by the Director. Deteriorated paint shall be corrected prior to re-occupancy under this Division, unless lead-based paint testing proves the deteriorated paint is not lead-based paint. Inspection, testing, and correction documents shall be maintained for three years after the tenant vacates the dwelling unit. The visual inspection required by section 54.1009 is separate from the visual inspection required under section 54.1006. (Added 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.) (Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

(a) All home improvement stores and stores which sell or rent high pressure water equipment shall maintain a supply of the lead-safe work practices pamphlets prepared and supplied by the Director. The pamphlets shall be prominently displayed where painting supplies are sold and high pressure water equipment is sold or rented and shall be provided upon request to customers or other invitees.

(b) Home improvement stores and stores which sell or rent high pressure
water equipment shall conspicuously post the Lead-Safe Work Practices
sign prepared by the Director or a sign of substantially the same size,
typeface, and language. The sign shall make the following statement, or a
substantially equivalent statement, in large or boldface capital letters no
less than one-half inch in size:

PAINTING AND REMODELING CAN EXPOSE
YOUR FAMILY TO LEAD. IT IS UNLAWFUL TO
CREATE A LEAD HAZARD. YOU ARE REQUIRED
TO USE LEAD-SAFE WORK PRACTICES IF YOU
LIVE IN A PRE 1978 DWELLING AND WILL BE
DISTURBING PAINT. ASK FOR A FREE
PAMPHLET ON LEAD-BASED PAINT HAZARDS.

Ch. Art. Div.
5 4 10 19

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5: Public Safety, Morals and Welfare (2-2025)

(c) For all dwelling units constructed prior to January 1, 1978, the responsible
person shall be in compliance with 24 Code of Federal Regulations parts
35.80 – 98 inclusive.

(d) All CDPH-certified lead personnel conducting lead hazard evaluations
(e.g., risk assessment, clearance inspection, paint testing, dust sampling,
etc.) shall deliver a completed copy of the CDPH Lead Hazard Evaluation
Report (Form 8552) to the City of San Diego, if the property evaluated is
located within the city limits of the City of San Diego, within thirty days
of conducting the evaluation. The copy shall be submitted by email to
Lead-Safe@sandiego.gov, or by mail to:

Environmental Services Department
Lead Safety and Healthy Homes Program
9601 Ridgehaven Court, Ste 310
San Diego, CA 92123

Submittal of the 8552 form to the City of San Diego does not satisfy the requirement of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations, as may be amended, for submittal of the 8552 form to the CDPH. Complete copies of lead hazard evaluation reports shall be made available by the certified lead inspector / assessor, project monitor, or the owner to the City of San Diego upon request. (Added 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.) (Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

Ch. Art. Div. 5 4 10 20

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5: Public Safety, Morals and Welfare (2-2025)

Each child-care facility licensed or approved by the State of California, except for a child-care facility located on public school property, shall require a parent or legal guardian of each child older than six months and less than seven years of age inclusive to provide a statement from a physician or health care provider that the child older than six months has been screened for lead poisoning. This statement must indicate that the screening of the child older than six months has been performed in accordance with applicable criteria mandated by Title 17, division 1, chapter 9, article 1 of the California Code of Regulations titled “Screening for Childhood Lead Poisoning.” For purposes of section 54.1011, “screening” means testing an asymptomatic child older than six months for lead poisoning by analyzing the child’s blood for concentrations of lead. This statement shall be provided prior to admission, but in no event later than thirty days after admission. The child-care facility shall maintain the statement for three years after receipt and shall make such statements available to the City for review during normal operating hours upon request. (Added 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.) (Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

(a) The Director is authorized to administer and enforce the provisions of Chapter 5, Article 4, Division 10 of this Code. The Director or anyone designated by the Director to be an enforcement official may exercise any enforcement powers as provided in Chapter 1 of this Code.

(b) In addition to the general enforcement powers provided in Chapter 1 of
this Code, the Director or designee may exercise any of the following
supplemental enforcement powers as the Director or designee determines
may be necessary under the circumstances.

(1) Inspection Authority

Ch. Art. Div.
5 4 10 21

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5: Public Safety, Morals and Welfare (2-2025)

The Director or designee is authorized to inspect the interior and
exterior of any dwelling unit, structure, steel structure, adjacent
properties, or premises where conditions may exist which could
amount to a lead hazard or where activities which may disturb or
remove paint, which is lead-based paint or presumed lead-based
paint, have been, are being, or will be conducted, for the purpose
of determining the validity of a complaint or compliance with
Division 10. All inspections shall be conducted in a reasonable
manner. If an owner, occupant, or agent refuses permission to
enter or inspect, the Director or designee may seek an
administrative inspection warrant pursuant to the procedures
provided for in California Code of Civil Procedure sections
1822.50 through 1822.60.

(2) Sampling Authority

The Director or designee may collect paint, dust, and soil samples
from the interior or exterior of a dwelling unit, structure, steel
structure, adjacent properties, or premises where conditions may
exist which amount to a lead hazard or where activities which
disturb or remove paint, which is lead-based paint or presumed
lead-based paint, have been, are being, or will be conducted, for
the purpose of determining the validity of a complaint or
compliance with Division 10.

(3) Training

The Director or designee may require a responsible person, and any employee, agent, or representative of a responsible person in violation of Division 10 to attend an approved lead-safe work practice training course. The Director or designee shall require proof of attendance and satisfactory completion of the course, including certification from the instructor or provider of the course. Upon receipt of said proof, the Director or designee, in his or her sole discretion, may reduce or eliminate an administrative penalty, if any, imposed for a violation of Division 10.

(4) Demonstrate Compliance with Records Requirements.

A person or firm responsible for the keeping and maintenance of
records under this Division must make all such records available to
the City of San Diego upon request.

Ch. Art. Div. 5 4 10 22

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5: Public Safety, Morals and Welfare (2-2025)

(5) State Certification Required for Certified Lead Abatement
Contractors.

In addition to permanent abatement measures, any window
treatment or hazard that involves the stripping of lead-based paint
to the substrate is to be conducted by a Certified Lead Abatement
Contractor.
(Added 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)
(Amended 1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

(a) It is unlawful to violate any provision or requirement of Division 10. The failure to comply with any requirement of Division 10 constitutes a violation of Division 10. Violations of the provisions or requirements of Division 10 may be prosecuted as misdemeanors subject to the penalties provided in section 12.0201 of this Code. The Director or designee alternatively may seek injunctive relief or civil penalties in the Superior Court pursuant to section 12.0202 of this Code or may pursue any administrative remedy provided in Chapter 1, Article 2, Divisions 3 through 10 inclusive, of this Code.

(b) Remedies under section 54.1013 are in addition to and do not supersede or
limit any and all other remedies, civil or criminal. The remedies provided
for herein shall be cumulative and not exclusive.
(Added 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

(a) Reinspection Fee

Whenever the Director or designee reinspects a dwelling unit, structure,
steel structure, adjacent properties, or premises to determine compliance
with Division 10, this Code, or applicable state law, the Director may
assess and collect fees, as set forth in Chapter 1, Article 3, Division 1 of
this Code, against the responsible person to recover the fully ascertainable
costs to the City for the following:

(1) dwelling unit, structure, or steel structure reinspections;

(2) lead-safe work practice reinspections;

Ch. Art. Div.
5 4 10 23

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5: Public Safety, Morals and Welfare (2-2025)

(3) laboratory analysis; and

(4) sample collection fees.

(b) Fees, including but not limited to Reinspection Fees and increases to
Building Permit fees and Demolition/Removal Permit fees, which are
imposed for purposes of regulation, education, and enforcement under
Division 10 shall be segregated and deposited into a separate account
within a fund. All such fees and accrued interest thereon shall be used
solely and exclusively for the purposes for which the fee was imposed.

(c) The assessment and collection of these fees shall not preclude the
imposition of any administrative or judicial penalty or fine for violations of
this Code or applicable state laws.

(d) Civil penalties collected pursuant to Division 10 and investigative costs
associated with the enforcement action shall be deposited in the Code
Enforcement Civil Penalty Fund established pursuant to section 13.0402 of
this Code.

(e) A fee schedule shall be established and revised as necessary by the City
Manager in accordance with Council Policy and City Administrative
Regulations to reflect current costs. The fee schedule shall be filed in the
Rate Book of City Fees and Charges in the City Clerk’s Office.
(Added 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

Violations of Division 10 shall be treated as strict liability offenses regardless of intent. (Added 4-8-2008 by O-19732 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

Ch. Art. Div. 5 4 10 24

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5: Public Safety, Morals and Welfare (2-2025)

Any violation of the following regulations, as they may be amended, shall also constitute a violation of this Division:

(a) Title 17, sections 36000 to 36100 of the California Code of Regulations,
relating to Work Practice Standards for lead substances,

(b) 40 C.F.R. Part 745, Subpart E,

(c) 24 C.F.R. Part 35, Subpart A.
(“Incorporation of Federal and California Regulations by Reference” added
1-23-2025 by O-21912 N.S.; effective 2-22-2025.)

Ch. Art. Div.
5 4 10 25

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5: Public Safety, Morals and Welfare (1-2013)

Article 4: Public Hazards and Public Nuisances