Texas Laws on Scanners

[morbe]

I hate to bring up such a tender subject. But does anyone know if just the average individual can use a scanner while driving around? or perhaps there is a website to be refered to? Im just seeing alot of warning on other website that say it may be unlawfull to use a scanner in a car.

 

[texasemt13]

No law forbiding it outright in Texas.

There are local laws (San Antonio) about distracted drivers (texting, iPods, etc.) that could be interpreted to include a scanner.

It shouldn't be a problem, if you don't allow it to distract you. Every law enforcement officer I know (many troopers, deputies and officers) have known that I carry one, and most think it's a good thing, that someone is a little more aware of what's going on. Most scanning enthusiasts have a little higher degree of respect for LEOs as well, because we hear how busy they are, and the kind of crap that people call them for.

I work a Friday night job during the summers with the same deputy, on the River in New Braunfels, for some side cash. He enjoys listening to it as much as I do, because I usually hear what's going on as soon as he (and usually before him if it involves the FD/EMS) because of the scanner.

 

[billwilliams]

I must not be the average individual, because I have two or three in the truck all the time..

 

[xtraclass]

The below link should answer your question

U.S. Scanner Laws

 

[emd001]

Ive only had one incident in Texas where the trooper asked me to turn it off. Im not sure whether he was afraid of me hearing something and running or whatever but i know im clear so i just said no problem and turned it off. Everyone other LEO that has seen or heard my scanner(s) has never had a problem with it.

 

[al95]

I sometimes turn off or lower the scanner volume when their is DL and Insurance check point.

 

[lewisvilletx]

My son and I listen to Lewisville FD via radio reference on our computer Lewisville Fire Department Live Scanner Audio Feed but would like to know if a $100 analog portable scanner would be able to listen to Lewisville. Does listening to Lewisville FD require an analog or digital scanner?
Thanks