Drug Contaminated Properties

Methamphetamine manufacturing, use, storage, or handling can leave behind chemical residues that contaminate a property. These residues may remain long after the activity has stopped and can pose significant health risks to current or future occupants.

When law enforcement identifies a methamphetamine laboratory and testing shows contamination above state cleanup standards, the Health Department issues a Health Officer’s Order. This order restricts access to the property until decontamination is completed. The Health Department oversees the cleanup process to ensure it is conducted by qualified professionals and meets all applicable public health requirements.

The Health Department provides assistance to property owners and certified decontamination contractors by offering:

  • Technical consultation regarding cleanup requirements
  • Guidance on state and local regulatory standards
  • Oversight to verify that cleanup activities meet established public health standards

The Health Department does not provide oversight in situations such as:

  • Routine real estate transactions
  • Suspected methamphetamine use or smoking without confirmed contamination
  • Voluntary investigations or cleanups at properties not subject to a Health Officer’s Order

Our role is to protect public health by ensuring that contaminated properties are identified, access is restricted, and cleanup is completed in compliance with state and local regulations.

Law Enforcement

To notify the Health Department of a suspected drug lab, please fill out a Notification Form.

Submit completed forms to shd-ehq@snoco.org.

FAQs

How do I get certified to cleanup drug labs?

Washington State Department of Health certifies Drug Lab Cleanup Contractors.

I suspect a drug lab, what should I do?

If you suspect there is an actively operating illegal drug lab, or ongoing illegal drug activity contact local law enforcement.

What are the cleanup requirements for drugs other than meth?

While there is concern about exposure to drugs other than methamphetamine, including fentanyl, Washington does not have regulations that require fentanyl decontamination.

forms and Resources

Public Records Request

Waste Screening Form

List of Certified Drug Lab Cleanup Contractors

references

Health Effects from Meth and Fentanyl Residue

Preventing Drug Labs on Rental Property

Preventing Drug Labs in Hotels and Motels

Regulations

RCW 64.44 Contaminated Properties 

WAC 246-205-Decontamination of Illegal Drug Manufacturing and Storage Sites

Board of Health Code, Title 7 Illegal Drug Manufacturing or Storage Sites