Chicago Lead Laws

Like most major cities, the City of Chicago has certain laws that have been promulgated to protect children from lead poisoning. The maintenance of housing is the responsibility of owners in a manner that prevents the existence of lead hazards. (Chicago, Ill., Municipal Code § 7-4-030). Furthermore, each building that is regularly frequented by children six years of age and younger must be maintained so they are free of lead hazards. (Chicago Dep't of Public Health Rules & Regulations, Control and Mitigation of Lead Bearing Substances § 2). If an owner has received a notice of a lead hazard, he is required to post the notice sent to him by the Department of Public Health in common areas of the building. (Chicago, Ill., Municipal Code § 7-4-105).

Every health care provider, including pediatricians and clinicians involved in performing lead tests to determine lead levels in a resident of Chicago resident's blood is required to report the results to the Department of Health. (Chicago, Ill., Municipal Code § 7-4-115; Chicago Dep't of Public Health Rules & Regulations, Control & Mitigation of Lead Bearing Substances § 15). Child care facilities are required annually to send an informational pamphlet on lead poisoning to parents or guardians of kids that are six years old and under. (Chicago, Ill., Municipal Code § 7-4-075). Children between six months and six years of age are required to present a certification of having been lead screened before being admitted into a day care, kindergarten, or nursery school. (Chicago, Ill., Municipal Code § 7-4-070).

A representative of the city is authorized to inspect any residence, child care facility, school, or other location frequented by children ages six and under, including commercial establishments, to determine if there are lead hazards. The city representative may apply for a warrant for inspection if entry is denied. An authorized representative of the city may also inspect soil surrounding said facilities. (Chicago, Ill., Municipal Code § 7-4-090).

If you have a young child that you believe has lead poisoning, it is important to get your child tested right away. If you child has tested positive for lead poisoning, please contact our lead poisoning attorneys by calling us or filling out the form on this website.