After-market compartments

An “after-market compartment” is a compartment in a vehicle which is not included in the original design and which is installed in a vehicle after it’s manufactured. Under the Armoured Vehicle and After-Market Compartment Control Act and Regulation, it is illegal to own, operate or use a vehicle that contains an after-market compartment.

This prohibition does not apply to storage compartments or safes designed for after-market installation and sold by automotive or security equipment vendors. However, these compartments or safes must not be incorporated into a vehicle in a manner that is not intended by the manufacturer.

If you install an after-market compartment in a vehicle, you must contact the police immediately and provide:

• The name and address of the owner of the vehicle
• The make, model and year of the vehicle
• Where in the vehicle the compartment has been placed and how the compartment can be opened

A business that fails to report an after-market compartment installation could face a fine up to $100,000. An individual who fails to report an installation could face a fine up to $10,000 and six months in jail. Additional fines can also be issued under the Offence Act.