Methamphetamine (Meth) Contamination

Meth in Public Places

Public spaces are low risk. People spend less time there. They also touch fewer surfaces.

Places With Higher Risk

Risk is much higher where someone has smoked or made meth many times over a long time. These places include:

• Homes
• Apartments
• Buildings with many units

Learn More

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

Tips for Property Managers and Owners

Property managers and owners can take steps to lower the risk of meth use in rental homes:

• Check a renter’s past. Run a background check.
• Meet renters in person before you approve them.
• Stay in touch with neighbors and current renters.
• Watch for anything strange or odd at the property.

Tips for Homebuyers

Before you buy a home, look into its past.

• If you find signs of meth use, hire a state-certified expert to test the home.
• Call Boulder County Public Health at 303-441-1564 with questions.

Meth Cleanup Experts

The State Agency that certifies the testing and cleaning experts is The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). They certifiy professionals who are trained to test and clean places that may be contaminated by meth.

If you suspect meth is present, a certified expert can:

• Test the home to see how much meth is there.
• Check if it has spread to other rooms or units.
• Make a cleanup plan if the home needs it.

Colorado Consultants and Contractors

• If you think meth is currently being used or made at a property, consider contacting property management.
• If meth use is confirmed contact the police.
• Colorado Certified Testers and Clean Up Companies
• You can also call the Boulder County Drug Task Force at 303‑441‑4444 to report your concerns.

• Keep everyone out. Only certified testers or cleaners may enter.
• Hire a certified expert to inspect the home.
• Hire a certified cleaner to clean it, or tear it down if needed.
• Have the expert retest the home to check that it is now safe.
• Send the final cleanup report to Boulder County Public Health and the state.

Call Boulder County Public Health at 303-441-1564 with questions.

Laws that Apply

State and county rules cover meth testing and cleanup. These include:

• 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 on cleaning meth‑affected properties

Boulder County Public Health provides guidance to homeowners, agencies, and certified experts. Together, we make sure homes get clean and safe.

For more state rules, visit the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

Possible Symptoms and Signs of Meth Exposure

Symptoms can be different depending on how much meth a person is exposed to and how long the exposure lasts. Possible symptoms include:

Symptoms depend on how much meth has been touched and entered your body, and for how long. Possible symptoms include:

• Red, watery, or burning eyes
• A sore nose or throat
• Red or itchy skin
• Coughing, sneezing, or a stuffy nose
• Headache
• Upset stomach or diarrhea
• Fast heartbeat
• Chest pain or trouble breathing
• Fever
• Dark urine
• Yellow skin or eyes
• Trouble thinking clearly
• Hallucinations, or other brain and nerve symptoms

These symptoms can have many causes. Having them does not always mean you were exposed to meth.