NEW BYLAW TO INFORM FUTURE TENANTS ABOUT GROW-OP MOULD, TOXINS

Owner Must Notify Any Prospective Occupants That Drug Lab Had Been
Removed

A new Surrey bylaw proposes to notify tenants about black mould,
fungus and airborne toxins arising from marijuana grow-ops discovered
on the premises.

"Before a parcel is reoccupied after the removal of a grow operation
or clandestine drug lab, the owner must notify any prospective
occupants that the operation was removed," states the prospective
bylaw unveiled in a report to council last night.

"This puts a lot more onus on homeowners," said Coun. Judy
Villeneuve.

A total of 1,119 tips have been investigated by the city since last
March, not including RCMP drug investigations.

Owners may be fined up to $10,000 for noncompliance and there are
inspection fees of up to $2,000. The inspections permit the residence
to be reoccupied after "professional" cleaners have inspected walls,
insulation and floors.

The staff report notes that "sophisticated" grow operations are set up
in "affluent neighbourhoods in large, newer homes" and "customized to
suit drug operator's needs."

"The home will remain on the tax roll as having at one time had a
grow-op or meth lab," said bylaw manager John Sherstone.

Council was expected to approve the bylaw after a public hearing
concluded last night.

- - Council delayed hiring three additional bylaw officers to beef up
security at parks such as Bear Creek and Newton Athletic, where
assaults have occurred. Coun. Marvin Hunt said the required $170,000
is not presently in the budget.