Im leaving for a trip to Tennessee (leaving from michigan, going through Ohio and Kentuckey, Arriving) very soon and i need some scanner law help. I will be stopping in Ohio and Kentuckey to railfann with a scanner. Do any of you know if scanners are illegal in those 2 states.
Thanks for any help,
Chris
I live in Ohio, scanners are no problem. Have a nice and safe trip.
http://www.fireline.org/scanlaws/scanner5.html
You’re clear in Ohio. Kentucky bans mobile scanners. I’m sure you know that Michigan used to ban mobile scanners without a permit (I got one when I visited a few years ago), but now only makes their use in the commission of a crime illegal.
I was hassled in KY back in the 1980’s for a scanner hanging on my belt while I was walking - at least I didn’t have any police channels and the officer let me go.
I would opine that if you don’t use the scanner while mobile, you may be OK. Keep it out of sight, and out of reach, while mobile.
Behave yourself, stay out of the sights of the police, and you’ll probably be OK.
Virtually all states that ban mobile scanners allow them for amateur radio operators (hams). The technician class is not difficult to achieve - Morse code is no longer required. Not only will that help get you off the hook, but there are ham frequencies used by railfans in some areas. I know there are several such frequencies in Michigan.
And you’ll find the ham radio community fun in and of itself. Local clubs often run classes, and there are plenty of study resources available.
Have a safe trip!
Thank you all for such quick responses!
Have a happy Easter,
Chris
As far as I know Kentucky still bans the mobile use of scanners, that is the use of a scanner while driving in your motor vehicle. .My advise is to take down your antenna before crossing into Kentucky, and hide your scanner in the trunk or a cargo compartment of the vehicle before reaching Kentucky.
Well, I guess that is what I will have to do, use it in Ohio, and hide it in kentuckey.
Thanks,
Chris