Interpreting Lead Levels

View the table below to learn how to respond to lead levels in your area. Soil lead levels are represented in the unit parts per million (ppm). Lead is naturally occurring in most soils, generally ranging from 2 – 60 ppm.

Soil Lead Level (ppm)Level of Lead ContaminationWhat you need to do
0 – 80 ppmVery Low (green)Little to no health risk, but be aware of other possible sources of lead exposure.
81 – 200 ppmMedium (yellow)Reduce children’s exposure and play 
Wash hands after playing outside
Maintain grass, or mulch, over bare soil
Discourage children’s play. 
Gardens: wash all vegetables with 1% vinegar solution; peel root crops; do not compost peelings/leaves
201 – 400 ppmHigh (orange)Restrict children’s access to soil.  
Cover soil with dense grass, or mulch.
Grow vegetables in raised beds filled with non-contaminated soil
Over 400 ppmVery High (red)If possible re-test soil in other areas of your property
Do not allow children to access soil. Do not grow vegetables.

Contact your local health department

Our Data

View Soil Lead Levels In Your Area

Disclaimer: These points may not be exact. GPS data are estimated based on nearby addresses or cross streets. Lead soil levels can also vary greatly, even within inches. Any high or low lead level in soil may not represent the lead risk of the entire property.