Navigating the legality of police scanners can be confusing. If you’re in Indiana and wondering “Can You Have A Police Scanner In Your Car Indiana?”, the short answer is generally yes, it is legal. Indiana law, specifically IC 35-44-3-12, addresses the unlawful use of a police radio, but it also provides significant exemptions that protect citizens using scanners for lawful purposes.
The Indiana statute outlines specific instances where possessing or using a police radio becomes unlawful. These include knowingly possessing a police radio, transmitting over police emergency frequencies, or using a scanner while committing or furthering a crime, or to evade law enforcement. These actions are classified as a Class B misdemeanor.
However, the crucial part of the law lies in its exemptions. Subsection (b) of IC 35-44-3-12 clearly states that the restrictions on possessing and using police radios do not apply to a wide range of individuals and situations. This is where the legality for everyday citizens comes into play.
One key exemption, point (10) of subsection (b), directly states that the law does not apply to “a person who possesses or uses a police radio during the normal course of the person’s lawful business.” This broad exemption essentially covers individuals using police scanners for legitimate reasons, such as news gathering, monitoring public safety communications, or even just personal interest, as long as it’s part of lawful activities.
Furthermore, other exemptions reinforce the legality for many users. These include exemptions for:
- Governmental entities
- Law enforcement officers
- Emergency service vehicles (common carriers and public utilities)
- Individuals with written permission from law enforcement
- Licensed amateur radio operators (when not transmitting on police frequencies)
- Use within a dwelling or place of business
- News media professionals
- Businesses involved in manufacturing or selling police radios
In essence, Indiana law focuses on preventing the unlawful use of police radios, rather than outright banning possession. As long as you are not using a police scanner to commit crimes, interfere with law enforcement, or transmit on restricted frequencies without authorization, possessing a police scanner in your car in Indiana is generally legal under the “lawful business” exemption and other provisions within IC 35-44-3-12. It’s always wise to ensure your scanner use remains within legal and ethical boundaries, respecting the purpose and function of emergency communication channels.
