Navigating the legality of radio scanners, especially for car use, can be confusing. If you’re wondering about using a Radio Scanner For Car in Michigan, it’s essential to understand the state’s specific laws. This article clarifies the legal landscape surrounding radio scanners in vehicles within Michigan, based on Michigan Penal Code 750.508.
Michigan’s Scanner Law: A Historical Overview
Previously, Michigan law had stricter regulations concerning radio scanners in vehicles. Section (1) of Michigan Penal Code 750.508 once stated, “(1) Any person who shall equip a vehicle with a radio receiving set that will receive signals sent on frequencies assigned by the Federal Communications Commission of the United States of America for police purposes, or use the same in this state unless such vehicle is used or owned by a peace officer, or a bona fide amateur radio operator holding a technician class, general, advanced, or extra class amateur license issued by the Federal Communications Commission, without first securing a permit to do so from the Director of the Department of State Police upon application as he or she may prescribe, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor…”
This older wording essentially made it illegal to equip a vehicle with a radio scanner capable of receiving police frequencies without a permit. The term “equip” was interpreted broadly to include having a functional scanner in the car, whether permanently installed or handheld. Exemptions existed for peace officers and licensed amateur radio operators, but even for amateurs, a permit seemed to be implied.
The Amendment: What Changed?
Michigan law regarding radio scanners for car use underwent a significant change around 2006 or 2007. The revised wording of 750.508 now reads: “Sec. 508. (1) A person who has been convicted of 1 or more felonies during the preceding 5 years shall not carry or have in his or her possession a radio receiving set that will receive signals sent on a frequency assigned by the federal communications commission of the United States for police or other law enforcement, fire fighting, emergency medical, federal, state, or local corrections, or homeland security purposes. This subsection does not apply to a person who is licensed as an amateur radio operator by the federal communications commission. A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor…”
Current Legality and Exemptions
The current Michigan law takes a different approach. Instead of broadly prohibiting radio scanners in cars, it specifically restricts individuals with recent felony convictions. According to the amended law, anyone who has been convicted of a felony within the past 5 years is prohibited from possessing a radio scanner in a car that can receive frequencies used by law enforcement, emergency services, and homeland security.
Importantly, the updated law explicitly exempts licensed amateur radio operators from this restriction, regardless of felony convictions. Therefore, under current Michigan Penal Code 750.508, it appears that most individuals can legally use a radio scanner for car in Michigan, unless they have a felony conviction within the last five years. Amateur radio operators are explicitly permitted to use these devices.
Disclaimer: Please note that this information is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Laws can change, and interpretations can vary. For definitive legal guidance, consult with a legal professional or law enforcement agency in Michigan.
