Scanning Laws

Receive Only Radio - Scanners Etc

The purpose of this information sheet is to remove any confusion regarding the reception of personal or business radio transmissions by unauthorised persons or groups. It also gives guidance on the subject by setting out the legal position with regard to the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949 (WT Act). How the legislation is applied will depend on the individual circumstances of the offence. Anyone who intends to listen to radio transmissions should be aware of the following: A licence is not required for a radio receiver as long as it is not capable of transmission as well (The Wireless Telegraphy Apparatus (Receivers) (Exemption) Regulations 1989 (SI 1989 No 123). The exception to this is that it is an offence to listen to unlicensed broadcasters (pirates) without a licence. Licences are not issued for this purpose. Although it is not illegal to sell, buy or own a scanning or other receiver in the UK, it must only be used to listen to transmissions meant for GENERAL RECEPTION. The services that you can listen to include Amateur and Citizens' Band transmissions, licensed broadcast radio and weather and navigation broadcasts. It is an offence to listen to any other radio services unless you are authorised by the Secretary of State to do so.