Navigating the legality of car accessories can be tricky, and when it comes to Car Police Scanners, misconceptions are common. Contrary to what some might believe, owning and operating a car police scanner isn’t universally restricted across the United States. In fact, the majority of states permit you to equip your vehicle with a scanner without requiring special permissions, as long as you adhere to general driving regulations like those concerning distracted driving. However, a handful of states do have specific laws that place restrictions on car police scanners, and it’s crucial to be aware of these to ensure you’re on the right side of the law.
Several states have laws on the books that directly address the use of police scanners in vehicles. Let’s delve into some specific examples:
Kentucky: Kentucky law, under statute 432.570, stands out as particularly restrictive. It prohibits portable scanners or radios capable of receiving police frequencies, whether they are in a vehicle or not. This statute is broadly written, even suggesting restrictions on devices capable of receiving frequencies that could potentially be assigned to police in the future. While seemingly encompassing all radio receivers, an exception is made for use within your own home. For those in Kentucky interested in car police scanners, this law presents a significant hurdle.
Florida: Florida Statute 843.16 takes a slightly different approach. It prohibits having a radio receiver “adjusted or tuned” to receive police or fire frequencies. This could be interpreted to include programmed frequencies, making the operation of a car police scanner that is programmed with local frequencies questionable. However, a strict interpretation of the law might allow for a scanner that is capable of receiving such frequencies but is not actively tuned to them or is programmed with out-of-state frequencies where there are no frequency overlaps with in-state allocations. Florida law does include exceptions for amateur radio operators and recognized news agencies.
New York: In New York, section 397 of state law prohibits equipping a motor vehicle with any receiver “capable of receiving police frequencies.” Similar to Florida, an exception exists for licensed amateur radio operators, although even with a license, permits may be required, and interpretations on this aspect seem to vary. For New Yorkers considering a car police scanner, understanding local interpretations and potential permit requirements is essential.
Minnesota: Minnesota Statute 299C.37 restricts equipping a vehicle with a device “capable of receiving police emergency frequencies.” Like other states mentioned, Minnesota provides an exception for amateur radio operators, unless the operator has a history of violent crime. This statute focuses specifically on “emergency frequencies,” which might offer a slightly narrower scope than the broader language used in Kentucky or New York.
Indiana: Indiana takes a firm stance, making the use of a car police scanner illegal while mobile, including on foot. This prohibition on mobile use suggests a stricter approach compared to states that focus on the capability or tuning of the device.
It’s also important to note that several other states have laws that make using a scanner illegal specifically when it is in furtherance of committing a crime. The involvement of a vehicle in such instances can vary depending on the specific state law.
Staying Informed is Key
While most states allow the use of car police scanners, the exceptions in states like Kentucky, Florida, New York, Minnesota, and Indiana highlight the necessity of checking local laws. For a more comprehensive overview, resources like Mobile Scanner & RADAR-Detector Laws In The US – US Scanner Laws offer detailed information.
In conclusion, before installing a car police scanner, always verify the specific regulations in your state and any states you plan to travel through. Understanding these laws ensures you can enjoy your car accessories responsibly and legally.
