Have you ever driven down Highway 1 or around town and wondered whether you can legally use a radar detector? You’re not alone. With each province having its own set of rules, it can be confusing to understand what’s allowed and what might lead to a fine. Here, we’ll take a look at how radar detectors fit into BC laws, as well as the types of detectors available.
Are Radar Detectors Legal in British Columbia?
Yes. Radar detectors are legal in British Columbia; in fact, it’s one of three provinces in Canada where they are permitted per personal use. BC, Alberta and Saskatchewan do not currently have laws in their respective Motor Vehicle Act prohibiting the use of radar detectors or laser defense systems in private passenger vehicles.
However, once you cross into another province, the laws change. Radar detectors are illegal in Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland. Using one in those regions can result in fines or confiscation. Always check local regulations before using or transporting your device.
What about Laser Jammers?
Laser jammers fall under a separate category. They are not prohibited in British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan but they are prohibited in many other provinces and several U.S. states. Even where they are legal, it’s important to understand how misuse can lead to Criminal Code charges.
Canadian Criminal Code Section 129 – What Drivers Should Know
A number of Canadian drivers have reported being charged under Section 129 of the Criminal Code, which states that anyone who willfully obstructs a peace officer in the execution of their duties can be charged with an indictable offense.
In all documented cases, these charges occurred in situations involving laser jammers, not radar detectors. The reason this has happened is because if your laser defense system continues to block an officer’s radar gun even after you’ve slowed to a legal speed, the officer may determine that you are intentionally preventing them from performing their duty.
If you would like to install a laser jammer, our team at Ralph’s Radio will walk you through different types of ‘jam-to-kill’ devices and help you find the ones best suited to your needs.
Types of Radar Detectors (and their Pros & Cons)
- Windshield-mounted Radar Detectors
This is the most common type of detector. They attach directly to the windshield using suction cups and can be set up or removed in seconds.
Pros:
- Easy to install and remove
- Portable between vehicles
- Affordable
Cons
- Slightly less range compared to remotely mounted units
- Increased chance of misfiring
- Effectiveness may be impacted by windshield coatings such as tint or heating elements.
- Remote Mounted/Hardwired Radar Detectors
Remote-mounted (hardwired) detectors are permanently installed in the vehicle, often behind the front grille or integrated into the body for a clean, hidden appearance. These detectors often offer far superior performance and look great!
Pros:
- Higher performance and detection range
- Clean, out of sight (Factory style look)
- Harder to detect or steal
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Requires professional installation
- Difficult to transfer to other vehicles
- Laser Shifters/ Jammers
Laser jammers are not radar detectors. Instead, they detect and interfere with police lidar guns Lidar guns are one of the most commonly used tools for speed detection within BC.
Pros:
- Most effective against laser based speed measurements
- Integrates well with premium radar systems
Cons:
- Legal in BC but illegal in the majority of Canada (Steep fines)
- Higher cost and more complex installation process.
Radar detectors are not prohibited to own and use in British Columbia, and many drivers choose to install them for an added layer of awareness on the road. If you decide to purchase one, make sure you choose a style that matches your vehicle and driving habits, and understand the pros and cons of each type.
Keep in mind that laws are subject to change, and what’s legal today may not be tomorrow. Always stay up to date with regulations in your region and any place you plan to travel.
Visit Ralph’s Radio in Vancouver or Victoria to have a professional install your radar detector today!