Soils are an important consideration for individuals, community groups, and local governments becoming involved in urban agriculture. In many situations, urban soil has been contaminated and degraded by past industrial, dumping, construction or other activity, and adjacent buildings where lead-based paint has been applied. Elevated levels of lead are fairly common in urban soils and pose health risks, especially to young children who can ingest soil while playing or helping in gardens.

Rain gardens collect rainwater and beautify a yard. They provide an effective form of rainwater harvesting, allowing property owners to save valuable water from going down storm drains. Rain water has been collected by numerous cultures since ancient times, but the concept of a residential rain garden is recent. Although more commonly found in wetter climates, rain gardens can be beneficial in California's Mediterranean climate, with our dry and wet seasons. Rain gardens offer an attractive and practical way to conserve water.

This guide provides urban food producers in California with an overview of Federal and California food safety laws and regulations that may impact their operations.