Police scanners have long been used by hobbyists, journalists, and members of the public who want to stay informed about emergency activity in their area. In the past, scanners were bulky devices used primarily by radio enthusiasts.
Today, they are widely available as handheld units, vehicle-installed devices, and even smartphone apps that stream public safety communications. Because these tools allow people to listen to police and emergency radio traffic, many Maryland residents wonder whether police scanners are legal to own or use.
The short answer is yes—police scanners are generally legal in Maryland—but there are important limits. In many situations, legality depends not on owning a scanner, but on how it is used and for what purpose.
What Is a Police Scanner?
A police scanner is a radio receiver that allows users to listen to certain public safety communications, including police, fire, and emergency medical services. Traditional scanners tune into radio frequencies used by local agencies, while modern versions may rely on internet streams or mobile apps.
It is important to note that many law enforcement agencies now use encrypted systems, which cannot legally be accessed or decoded by the public. As a result, what a scanner can actually receive is often limited.
Is It Legal to Own a Police Scanner in Maryland?
Owning a police scanner is legal in Maryland. There is no state law that prohibits residents from purchasing or possessing a scanner, whether it is a handheld device, a mobile unit, or a scanner app. Maryland law focuses less on ownership and more on how a scanner is used.
Simply having a scanner in your home or vehicle does not, by itself, violate the law. However, possession alone does not protect someone if the scanner is later used in connection with unlawful activity.
Is It Legal to Use a Police Scanner in Maryland?
Using a police scanner for lawful, passive listening purposes is generally permitted in Maryland. Many people use scanners to stay informed about traffic accidents, road closures, severe weather, and other emergency situations affecting their communities.
Common lawful uses of police scanners may include:
- Monitoring emergency activity during severe weather
- Following traffic incidents or major road closures
- Listening to public safety communications as a hobby
Scanner use becomes a legal concern when it crosses into conduct that interferes with law enforcement or supports criminal behavior. Maryland does not require a license for ordinary scanner use, but the state does restrict how information obtained from a scanner may be used.
When Does Using a Police Scanner Become Illegal?
Using a police scanner may be illegal in Maryland when it is connected to criminal intent or interference with police activity.
Examples include situations where a scanner is used to:
- Assist in committing a crime
- Evade law enforcement or avoid arrest
- Interfere with police, fire, or emergency responders
- Relay police activity to others for unlawful purposes
In these situations, the scanner itself is not the crime. Instead, it becomes evidence of intent or participation in illegal conduct. Law enforcement may treat scanner use as an aggravating factor when paired with other criminal charges.
Police Scanners in Vehicles and Scanner Apps
Maryland does not have a blanket ban on police scanners in vehicles, unlike some other states. This means drivers are not automatically violating the law by having a scanner or scanner app in a car. Scanner apps are generally treated the same as physical scanners under Maryland law.
However, apps often rely on delayed or filtered broadcasts, which limit real-time access to police communications. Regardless of the format, using a scanner or app while driving can still lead to legal issues if it is tied to criminal activity or unsafe behavior.
Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to Schedule a Time to Speak With a Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer
Scanner-related charges often arise alongside more serious allegations, such as theft, drug offenses, or obstruction. In those situations, the legal consequences can be significant, even if scanner ownership itself is lawful. If you are being investigated or charged in connection with police scanner use, it is important to understand how Maryland law applies.
For more information, contact an experienced Montgomery County criminal defense lawyer Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a confidential consultation with a criminal defense attorney. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, and Waldorf.
We proudly serve Prince George’s County, Frederick County, Montgomery County, Charles County and the surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Lanham
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste 201 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 262-7005
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Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Frederick
25 E Patrick St #200 Frederick, MD 21701
(301) 381-1993
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Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Rockville
11140 Rockville Pike 550-J Rockville, MD 20852
(301) 364-3195
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Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Waldorf
8 Post Office Rd, Waldorf, MD 20602
(301) 857-4771