Renovation drywall is currently being accepted at the Comox Valley Waste Management Centre, but residents are being advised that temporary closures will occur more frequently.

Comox Strathcona Waste Management says the drywall bunker is now expected to close for approximately one week each month while mandatory asbestos testing is completed.

Officials say the additional testing is required because of an increase in the illegal disposal of drywall containing asbestos.

The next closure is scheduled from November 9th through 13th. Renovation drywall will not be accepted at the Comox Valley Waste Management Centre during that period.

New-construction drywall cut-offs containing no mud or joint compound can generally be dropped off without laboratory testing once an application form has been completed.

The same applies to demolition drywall carrying a clearly visible manufacturer’s date stamp confirming it was produced after 1990.

Drywall made before 1990—or material without a visible date stamp—must be tested for asbestos by a qualified professional before it will be accepted.

Samples collected by homeowners will not be accepted, and separate test results may be required for drywall removed from different rooms.

An application form is required for every drywall load delivered to either the Comox Valley or Campbell River waste-management centre.

Residents are encouraged to confirm that drywall is being accepted before travelling to the facility, as its status may change while testing is underway.

Current information and application requirements are available at Comox Strathcona Waste Management.