Lethbridge police warn against unauthorized police equipment on civilian vehicles
Lethbridge police warn Canadians that outfitting civilian vehicles with unauthorized police equipment – lights, sirens or ‘Police’ markings – is illegal.
Lethbridge police have issued a public safety notice reminding residents that outfitting civilian vehicles with unauthorized police equipment is illegal in Canada. The notice highlights items such as red and blue lights, sirens, push bars, spotlights and decals or markings that could lead the public to mistake a private vehicle for an active police unit. Officers say the measures are intended to prevent impersonation, reduce public confusion and protect both residents and first responders.
Lethbridge police outline the illegal modifications
In their news release, Lethbridge police listed specific alterations that are prohibited when fitted to civilian vehicles. These include visible emergency lighting in red or blue, audible warning devices like sirens, and insignia that include the word "Police" or official crests. The department emphasized that any combination of these features that could cause a reasonable person to believe a vehicle is a police vehicle falls within the scope of unauthorized police equipment.
Police noted that cosmetic or decorative changes that imitate police markings can be just as misleading as functional devices. Even partial use of symbols, lettering or colours commonly associated with law enforcement may be sufficient to create confusion for the public. Officers urged vehicle owners and modifiers to avoid any appearance of official authority when altering their vehicles.
Safety hazards cited by officers
Lethbridge police said the presence of unauthorized police equipment creates immediate safety risks on roads and in neighbourhoods. A vehicle that appears to be law enforcement can trigger motorists to stop unexpectedly, pull over in unsafe locations, or otherwise alter their driving behaviour. That risk extends to interactions during traffic stops, where a driver might comply with someone who is not an authorized officer, potentially placing themselves in danger.
The department also warned that impersonation undermines public trust in legitimate police operations and can complicate emergency responses. Conflicting signals from multiple vehicles—some falsely displaying emergency equipment—can delay aid and create hazardous conditions for officers and civilians. Police stressed that preventing such confusion is a core reason for the prohibition on unauthorized police equipment.
How to report suspected impersonation safely
Lethbridge police advised members of the public who encounter a vehicle that appears to be impersonating police to prioritize safety and gather information. Citizens should call 9-1-1 for immediate threats or suspicious stops, provide a description of the vehicle, its location and direction of travel, and, if possible, note the licence plate number. Observers were urged not to confront the driver and to maintain a safe distance while waiting for police to arrive.
If a suspected incident is not urgent but still concerning, residents can contact the non-emergency line to report details for follow-up. Police also recommended taking photos or video only when it is safe and lawful to do so, as documentation can assist investigators but should not increase personal risk. Timely reporting helps officers identify patterns and address repeat offenders.
Potential enforcement actions and consequences
While the news release did not list specific statutes, Lethbridge police warned that fitting a civilian vehicle with unauthorized police equipment may expose the owner or installer to legal consequences. Those consequences can include criminal charges related to impersonation, provincial offences, fines and other enforcement measures. Police said enforcement will be carried out where evidence suggests an intent to pose as an officer or to mislead the public.
The department indicated that investigations will consider both the presence of equipment and the context in which it was used. Authorities may seize equipment or take other steps to prevent further risk to the public. Police encouraged retailers, customizers and vehicle owners to be aware of the rules and to refrain from marketing or installing items that could be used to impersonate law enforcement.
Advice for vehicle owners and businesses that sell accessories
Lethbridge police recommended that vehicle owners check with local authorities before purchasing or installing accessories that could resemble emergency equipment. Legitimate aftermarket parts that enhance vehicle appearance or utility should not include colours, lettering or configurations commonly associated with police. Businesses that sell or install automotive accessories were reminded of their responsibility to avoid supplying products intended to make a civilian vehicle appear to be an official emergency vehicle.
Police also suggested consumers ask vendors for written confirmation that a product is legal for civilian use and to retain receipts and documentation of any modifications. When in doubt, vehicle owners should seek guidance from local police or municipal officials to ensure compliance and to avoid costly or dangerous mistakes.
Lethbridge police concluded their release by urging community cooperation to keep roads and neighbourhoods safe and to report any vehicle that appears to be impersonating law enforcement.
