Section 190. Emissions control systems standards

A. In accordance with § 46.2-1048 of the Code of Virginia, no owner or other person shall cause or permit the removal, disconnection, disabling or intentional alteration that reduces the effectiveness of an emissions control system or device that has been installed on a motor vehicle in accordance with federal laws and regulations.

B. No owner or other person shall attempt to defeat the purpose of any such motor vehicle emissions control system or device by installing any part or component that is not (i) a standard factory replacement part or component of the device or (ii) a part or component certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Control Program requirements.

C. The installation of any aftermarket parts approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or by the California Air Resources Board for installation as a part of a vehicle's emissions control equipment shall not be considered a violation of this section.

D. No owner or other person shall operate a motor vehicle or engine with the motor vehicle emissions control system or device removed, rendered inoperable or effectiveness reduced through intentional alteration.

E. The provisions of this section shall not prohibit or prevent shop adjustments or replacement, or both, of equipment for maintenance or repair, or the conversion of engines to low polluting fuels such as, but not limited to, natural gas or propane.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 13, Issue 05, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.