illegal drug labs

The Washington State Legislature found that some properties were being contaminated by hazardous chemicals used in the manufacture of illegal drugs. The substances used in clandestine drug manufacturing can pose a serious threat to human health and the environment if improperly used, stored, or disposed.

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There are also possible risks of exposure to infectious disease (e.g., AIDS and hepatitis) in the event of skin puncture by drug paraphernalia.

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The Washington State legislature passed Chapter 64.44 RCW, Contaminated Properties, to address this problem. The Washington Department of Health (DOH) adopted accompanying administrative regulations to interpret and supplement the RCW. These regulations are contained in Chapter 246-205 WAC, Decontamination of Illegal Drug Manufacturing or Storage Sites. This statute and the accompanying regulations specifically delegate requirements regarding drug lab sites to local health officers or their authorized representatives. Specifically, the local Health District is responsible for assessing the potential health threats at the affected property and determining whether the property is fit for future use and/or habitation.

The Kitsap County Health District adopted Ordinance 2005-7, Illegal Drug Lab Regulations to provide enforcement tools for compliance with drug lab requirements.

Health District responsibilities include posting the property, notifying the property owner and others with an interest in the property, inspecting the property, determining contamination, prohibiting use until cleanup is completed, overseeing cleanup of the property, and authorizing reoccupation.

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Health District warnings are posted at all suspected lab sites, while unfit for use postings occur at confirmed contaminated properties only.

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The methamphetamine problem in Washington State is growing and the Health District is involved with more drug labs every year.

See chart: MethLabChart.pdf

Drug labs can be anywhere: homes, sheds, vehicles, and many lab materials are dumped illegally throughout the county, contaminating soils and streams.

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If you suspect a drug lab, contact local law enforcement at (360) 337-7064. If you have concerns about possible contamination at a property, contact Grant Holdcroft at (360) 337-5607.

Related Links

Washington State Health Clandestine Drug Lab Program
M-files (Meth and Marijuana Resource File)