California Vehicle Code § 10852.5

(a) No person shall purchase a used catalytic converter, including for the purpose of dismantling, recycling, or smelting, except from any of the following: (1) An automobile dismantler licensed pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 5. (2) A core recycler, as defined in Section 21610 of the Business and Professions Code, that maintains a fixed place of business and has obtained the catalytic converter pursuant to that section. (3) A motor vehicle manufacturer, dealer, or lessor-retailer licensed pursuant to Division 5 (commencing with Section 11100). (4) An automotive repair dealer licensed pursuant to Chapter 20.3 (commencing with Section 9880) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code. (5) Any other licensed business that may reasonably generate, possess, or sell used catalytic converters. (6) An individual possessing documentation that they are the lawful owner of the used catalytic converter, including, but not limited to, a certificate of title or registration that identifies the individual as the legal or registered owner of the vehicle from which the catalytic converter was detached, and that includes a vehicle identification number that matches the vehicle identification number permanently marked on the catalytic converter. (b) As used in this section, the following terms have the following meanings: (1) “Permanently marked” means prominently engraved, etched, welded, metal stamped, acid marked, or otherwise permanently displayed using a similarly reliable method of imparting a lasting mark on the exterior case of the catalytic converter. (2) “Used catalytic converter” means a catalytic converter that has been previously installed on a vehicle and has been detached. It does not include a reconditioned or refurbished catalytic converter being sold at retail. (c) A violation of this section is punishable as an infraction by a fine, as follows: (1) For a first offense, by a fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000). (2) For a second offense, by a fine of two thousand dollars ($2,000). (3) For a third or subsequent offense, by a fine of four thousand dollars ($4,000).

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