Methamphetamine (Meth) Contamination

Meth contamination in public places usually poses less risk because people typically spend less time there and have less contact with contaminated surfaces.

The risk is greater in places where meth has been regularly smoked or made over time, including:

• Homes
• Apartments
• Multi-unit buildings

Learn More

• Information on Exposure to Methamphetamine
• Boulder County Main Public Library and Methamphetamine Use

Property Managers and Owners

Property managers can take steps to reduce the risk of meth use or manufacturing in rental properties:

• Check applicants’ rental history and conduct appropriate background checks.
• Meet prospective renters in person.
• Stay in contact with neighbors and tenants.
• Watch for unusual or concerning activity at the property.

Homebuyers

Before buying a home:

• Research the property’s history.
• If there is evidence of past meth use or manufacturing, consider having the property tested by a state-certified professional.
• Contact Boulder County Public Health at 303-441-1564 with questions.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) certifies professionals who test and clean properties affected by meth.

If meth contamination is suspected, a certified professional can:

• Test the property to find out how much contamination is present.
• Determine whether contamination has spread to other rooms or units.
• Develop a plan for cleanup when needed.

Colorado Consultants and Contractors

If you suspect that meth is currently being used or manufactured at a property, contact local law enforcement or the Boulder County Drug Task Force at 303-441-4444.

When a Property Is Officially Contaminated

If meth contamination is above Colorado’s cleanup standard, the property is considered a methamphetamine-affected property.

The property owner must:

1. Keep people out of the property that are not state-certified in meth testing and cleanup.
2. Hire a state-certified consultant to complete a full assessment.
3. Hire a state-certified contractor to clean the property according to state requirements or demolish the property.
4. Have a state-certified consultant test the property after cleanup to make sure it meets state standards.
5. Submit the final clearance report to Boulder County Public Health and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

For questions, contact Boulder County Public Health at 303-441-1564.

Laws and Regulations

Meth testing and cleanup requirements are based on state law, state regulations, and Boulder County requirements:

• Colorado Revised Statutes §25-18.5 — Illegal Drug Laboratories
• Colorado Board of Health Regulation 6 CCR 1014-3 — Cleanup of Methamphetamine-Affected Properties
• Boulder County Ordinance Concerning Cleanup of Methamphetamine-Affected Properties

Boulder County Public Health works with property owners, state agencies, local agencies, and certified professionals to make sure meth-affected properties are cleaned according to public health standards.

For state information about testing, certified professionals, and cleanup requirements, visit the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

Possible Symptoms of Meth Exposure

Symptoms depend on how much meth a person is exposed to and how long the exposure lasts. Possible symptoms may include:

• Red, watery, or burning eyes
• Nose or throat irritation
• Skin redness or rash
• Coughing, sneezing, or congestion
• Headache
• Stomach pain or diarrhea
• Fast heart rate
• Chest pain or trouble breathing
• Fever
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Problems thinking or concentrating
• Hallucinations or other nervous system effects

These symptoms can have many causes and do not necessarily mean someone has been exposed to meth.