
Do you have lead in your paint?
Lead-contaminated dust from lead-based paint is the primary cause of lead exposure in homes. Lead causes a variety of health problems in young children, including reduced IQ, developmental delays, learning disabilities, impaired hearing, and more. The effects of lead are permanent but preventable.Take control!
The Cerro Gordo County Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control program provides funding for eligible homeowners and property owners to remove lead-based paint hazards in older homes. Homes built before 1978 are at high risk for lead-based paint hazards. The greatest risk is to homes built prior to 1960. Cerro Gordo County has a large stock of homes built prior to 1960.

Program guidelines:
- The home is built prior to 1978. Both rental and owner-occupied units are eligible to apply.
- Have at least one child 5 years of age or under living in the home or visiting a significant amount of time (3 hours on two separate days of the week, 60 hours per year total), or have a pregnant woman in the home.
- Applicant must meet income requirements.
Application Process:
- Print off the application and fill it out completely. Please make sure that you select the correct application. If you are a homeowner living in the home you own, click on “Owner-Occupied Application.” If you are a tenant or landlord, please use the “Rental Application.” If you do not have a printer available, please call 641-421-9301 and request a paper copy of the application.
- Gather ALL the required information and items listed on page 3 of the application. All items must be gathered and submitted with an application before it is considered for the program.
- Submit your application. This can be mailed to or dropped off at CG Public Health, 2570 4th St. SW, Mason City, IA 50401 (next door to Hobby Lobby). Office hours are Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM, where there is someone available to answer questions and/or receive applications.
- After we receive your application and required information, we will confirm your qualifications and contact you as soon as possible about the next steps.
Resources specific to this page:
Program applications:
Printable flier – Do’s and Don’ts of Lead Poisoning Exposure
Iowa Department of Public Health – Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Lead Information
The Environmental Protection Agency
National Lead Information Center (Toll-Free): 1-800-424-LEAD (5323)