How to Understand Soil Lead Test Results After the Eaton & Pacific Palisades Fires
- CentrePoint Construction
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
After a wildfire like the Eaton Fire in Altadena or the Palisades Fire, one of the most important steps homeowners can take is soil lead testing. Organic debris and ash from burned structures, especially older homes can carry lead particles into the soil, and understanding the results gives you confidence and clarity as you rebuild, landscape, or plan future construction. Public Health LA County+1
This guide breaks down what your soil test results mean, how public health agencies interpret them, and what actions you might consider based on different lead levels.
What Is the Wildfire Soil Testing Program?
Los Angeles County’s wildfire soil testing initiative provides free lead analysis of soil samples for residential properties located:
Within the Eaton and Palisades burn scars
Downwind of those fires
Just outside the immediate burn areas
The goal is to help homeowners determine if lead contamination may be present in soil after ash and smoke settle. Public Health LA County
How the Program Works (Quick Overview)
Collect soil samples following the county’s instructions (e.g., from multiple areas of your yard). Public Health LA County
Submit the samples at designated drop-off locations. Public Health LA County
Receive lab results by email in about 7–10 business days. Public Health LA County
Interpret results using official guidance provided with your report.
How Soil Lead Test Results Are Reported
When your soil sample is analyzed, the laboratory will report a lead concentration, typically in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) also referred to as parts per million (ppm).
Here’s how public health agencies and environmental scientists interpret these numbers: Public Health LA County
Below is an example of soil lead test results from one of our recent projects, helping homeowners understand what these numbers really mean.
Lead Level (mg/kg or ppm) | Interpretation |
< 80 mg/kg | Generally considered protective for residential use, including yards, gardens, and play areas. Public Health LA County |
80–200 mg/kg | Above California’s residential screening level — may warrant precautions. Public Health LA County |
200–1,000 mg/kg | Above EPA’s screening level — children and sensitive populations should minimize exposure; further action may be recommended. Public Health LA County |
> 1,000 mg/kg | Considered hazardous waste — professional cleanup or soil remediation could be necessary. Public Health LA County |
Important: These levels don’t mean immediate danger, they are screening guidelines to help homeowners understand risk. Even levels above thresholds don’t automatically require soil removal, but they do suggest it’s time to take precautions and possibly consult a professional. Public Health LA County
What the Numbers Really Mean
Less than 80 mg/kg
Considered safe for everyday residential use.
Kids can play in the yard; gardens can grow produce.
Continue normal hygiene like washing hands and produce. Public Health LA County
80–200 mg/kg
Above the California residential screening level but below federal concern level.
These results mean lead is elevated compared to typical background soil levels.
Extra caution may be sensible — especially for children and pregnant individuals. Public Health LA County
200–1,000 mg/kg
Above the EPA screening level, additional steps are recommended.
Avoid letting children play in bare soil.
Consider covering soil with clean topsoil or ground cover and consult environmental professionals for guidance. Public Health LA County
Above 1,000 mg/kg
Considered a hazardous level by many environmental standards.
Professional assessment and remediation options should be explored. Public Health LA County
Why It Matters for Your Family and Property
Lead is a toxic metal, especially for children and pregnant people — because the body absorbs it more easily and it can affect neurological development and health over time. Even with levels below screening thresholds, safe practices like washing hands after outdoor play and before eating are important. Los Angeles County Public Health
Soil lead also has implications for:
Landscaping and gardening
Outdoor play areas
Construction and grading activities
ADU or foundation work
Knowing your soil lead levels helps you make informed decisions about how to proceed. It allows you to take steps to protect health where needed and to confidently continue
projects where levels are within acceptable ranges.
What to Do With Your Results
When you receive your soil lead test results:
1. Compare the result to screening levels
Use the guidance above to see where your result falls. Public Health LA County
2. Consider your daily uses
Do children play in the yard?
Are you growing edible plants?
Is construction or grading planned?
This context matters when deciding whether to take protective steps. Public Health LA County
3. Take reasonable precautions
Even low levels benefit from good hygiene:
Wash hands after gardening
Rinse produce thoroughly
Cover bare soil with grass, mulch, or ground cover Los Angeles County Public Health
4. Consult professionals for higher results
If your result exceeds 200 or 1,000 ppm, it’s wise to talk with an environmental consultant, public health official, or a qualified contractor. Public Health LA County
Final Takeaway
Soil lead testing after a wildfire provides essential insight into your property’s condition. Rather than a single “pass/fail” number, your results should be viewed along a range of risk — with context about how you use your yard and who lives there.
Understanding these results empowers you to:
Protect your family’s health
Plan construction or gardening confidently
Take informed, practical action when needed
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