Methamphetamine Labs

Clandestine methamphetamine (meth) labs may leave contaminaton on hard surfaces like walls, countertops, sinks or heating and air conditioning ducts, and be absorbed into soft surfaces like furniture, drapes and carpeting. Often found in small amounts, meth lab contaminants may still pose health risks to persons exposed to them.

Statutes and regulations were established that require clandestine meth labs be cleaned up in accordance with cleanup standards established by the State Board of Health, or the property owner may elect to demolish the property instead. The statute includes a provision that a property owner who cleans up a property in compliance with the regulations has immunity from civil lawsuits by future owners, occupants or neighbors related to the meth lab as long as verification testing is conducted by a qualified professional and a copy of the results provided to the local governing body (as defined in statute). Meth lab properties that do not meet the regulatory requirements are deemed a public health nuisance.

Although the Department doesn't oversee methlab cleanups, the regulations were written to provide a detailed process to follow and specific cleanup levels to ensure a property is properly decontaminated. The Department has developed guidance to assist local agencies, property owners and the general public in addressing contamination at former meth labs.

Statute

Search Michie's Legal Resources - exit this site

Illegal Drug Laboratories
- Title 25 Article 18.5 Part 1

Regulations

Regulations Pertaining to the Cleanup of Methamphetamine Labs

6 CCR 1014-3

Department Regulations

Guidance

Cleanup of Clandestine Methamphetamine Labs - Guidance Document October 2007
Support for Selection of a Cleanup Level for Methamphetamine at Clandestine Drug Laboratories February 2005

The following guidance has not yet been updated to reflect changes in regulation. However, much of the information is still useful and relevant. Please use these documents in conjunction with the regulations.

Methamphetamine (Meth) Lab Regulations Questions and Answers Februrary 2005
Cleanup of Methamphetamine Labs - Summary July 2003
Methamphetamine Lab Frequently Asked Questions July 2003

Contacts for Additional Information

To report a known or suspected meth lab, contact your local law enforcement agency or drug task force.

To report suspected disposal down the sanitary sewer, contact the local wastewater treatment authority. The local public works department or other city offices can assist in determining how to contact the wastewater treatment authority.

To determine if there is a local oversight program for meth lab cleanup, contact your local health department, building department or law enforcement agency.

For questions regarding health effects of meth lab-related chemicals or by-products, contact the Department's Disease Control and Environmental Epidemiology Division at 303-692-2700.

For general questions regarding meth lab cleanup or if you suspect environmental contamination from a meth lab, call the Division's Customer Technical Assistance line at 303-692-3320.