The City of Lancaster is committed to ending childhood lead poisoning.

“Lead-Safe Lancaster” is the City’s initiative to achieve this committment. 

Lead poisoning harms the brain and body and the effects can be irreversible 

– Lead exposure is most harmful for young children and pregnant women 

– Lead poisoning causes learning, behavior, hearing, and speech problems and can cause permanent and irreversible damage to the brain and body

– Lead poisoning may slow a child’s growth and development and can result in learning disabilities, hyperactivity and other behavioral disorders, loss of IQ, and underperformance in school 

If you live in an older home (built before 1978), your children are at higher risk of lead poisoning 

– Homes built before 1978 (when lead-based paints were banned) probably contain lead-based paint, the most likely source of lead poisoning in children in the City of Lancaster. When the paint peels and cracks, it makes lead dust. Children can be exposed to lead when they swallow or breathe in lead dust.

– While lead-based paint has been identified as the most likely source of lead poisoning in the City, the City is also addressing potential hazards of lead poisoning by working to identify and replace all lead water lines in the City. We’re asking water customers to verify the material of the customer-owned portion of their water service line. The City of Lancaster will replace the lead or galvanized service lines in accordance with state regulatory requirements. You can find more information here: www.cityoflancasterpa.gov/lead-service-line.

– Lancaster City is among the top ten cities for the highest rates of childhood lead poisoning in Pennsylvania

– Over 80% of the homes in Lancaster City were built before 1978

Lead poisoning is preventable 

– Clean regularly 

– Keep painted surfaces in good condition to reduce hazards

– Feed your children nutritional food regularly

– Talk to your doctor and have your children tested for lead poisoning 

New Requirements in 2023

In April 2022, City Council adopted a new ordinance to enhance lead safety protections in rental housing and childcare facilities. This ordinance requires all rental properties and childcare facilities built before 1978 to meet lead safety requirements every two to four years. (Bureau of Property Maintenance & Housing Inspections)

In addition, the City has strengthened its support of children with elevated blood lead level (EBLL) cases by requiring homeowners and landlords to more quickly respond to potential exposure to lead in homes and giving City Health Officers more tools to address exposure. (Bureau of Health)

These changes will go into effect in January 2023.

The City of Lancaster offiers the Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes Program, funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which helps qualified homeowners, landlords and renters reduce risks related to lead-based paint exposure and improve the safety and overall condition of their homes. Learn more about the program and see if you’re eligble at cityoflancasterpa.com/lead.

Questions? email info@cityoflancasterpa.gov.