How to Report a Smog Offender

Do you find yourself rolling up your window or closing the car vents to escape particularly foul smog rolling from the neighboring vehicle's tailpipe? You're not powerless. Pick up a pencil and the phone.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Telephones
• Pencils
• Spiral Notebooks

1. Note the license plate number if a car is putting out an unusual amount of smoke.

2. Call the police and say that you want to lodge a smog complaint. In some states, you may need to call the Department of Motor Vehicles.

3. Note the name of the officer you speak to and the time of your call.

Tips & Warnings

• Not all smoking cars are smog offenders. White smoke is often harmless steam. It's the black or blue smoke you're looking for. Avoid reporting anyone unless you are sure they are violating clean air laws.

• Your complaint will be on the public record.

• Smog offenders may have already been cited. Different states allow a differing amount of time for repairs.