Lead Paint Regulations

While a permit from the City is not required for painting an existing structure, a Lead-Based Paint Removal Form must be filed with the Building Inspection Division of Safety and Permits prior to starting work on the exterior of any structure built prior to December 31, 1978. Filing this form allows the City to know where work is occurring and allows us to be sure homeowners and contractors are aware of the City’s requirements.

If you would like additional information on working with lead-based paint, please see the Department’s Guidelines for Working with Lead-Based Paint brochure. This brochure summarizes the City Code’s requirements for working on structures containing lead-based paints and provides the City’s recommendations on how to provide a work environment that is safe for you and your neighbors.

External Resources

For additional information, please visit the following sites:

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has many publications available as well as a list of Lead-Safe certified contractors.
• Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has information on how to safely work with lead-based paints and how to safely dispose of the debris. A Lead Awareness brochure is available that outlines the dangers of lead in the household.
• For information on worker safety and standards for working with lead-based paint, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
• For information regarding interior work practices or for information related to childhood lead poisoning, please contact the City’s Health Department at 504-658-2565.
• Information on becoming a Louisiana licensed Lead Paint Abatement and Removal Contractor, see the Louisiana Licensing Board for Contractors.