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 Contamination | Suggested Actions |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 80 ppm | Very Low (green) | Little to no health risk, but be aware of other possible sources of lead exposure. |
| 81 – 400 ppm | Medium (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 |
| 401 – 999 ppm | High (orange) | Restrict children’s access to soil. Cover soil with dense grass, or mulch. Grow vegetables in raised beds filled with non-contaminated soil 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 |
| 1,000 ppm + | Very 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 California
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.