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6d ago

LA County Launches Free Soil Lead Testing Program for Eaton Fire-Affected Areas

The initiative offers residents near the Eaton Fire burn scar free soil and blood lead testing to address contamination risks identified after January's wildfire.

Janet Scully, program manager with the L.A. County Department of Public Health, demonstrated how to collect soil as part of the department’s Eaton Fire Soil Testing Program, which kicked off on Thursday, May 22. (Photo by Ryan Carter)

Overview

  • The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has launched a free residential soil lead testing program for properties near the Eaton Fire burn scar.
  • Approximately 26,000 eligible households have been notified by mail about the program, which runs through December 2025 with potential for expanded eligibility.
  • Residents can self-collect soil samples using provided instructions, drop them at designated sites, and receive lead concentration results within 7–10 business days.
  • The county is also offering free lead blood testing for individuals concerned about exposure during or after the wildfire.
  • The program is funded by a $3 million allocation from a lead-paint settlement and aims to provide remediation guidance for properties exceeding California's 80 mg/kg lead threshold.