Ord 57-2022 Amending Chapter 78 of the Code Adding Section VI Catalytic Converter 11/15/2022 Ordinance No. 57-2022
Ordinance establishing Article VI-Catalytic Converters; providing for
severability; and providing an effective date
WHEREAS, catalytic converters contain the precious metals of rhodium,
palladium, and platinum. The value for these metals, especially rhodium, have been at an
all-time high since 2019; and,
WHEREAS, The National Insurance Crime Bureau has reported the claims of
catalytic converter thefts rose nationally from 3,389 in 2019 to 14,433 in 2020. In Wichita
Falls, from 2019 to 2022, there have been over 130 reported catalytic converters stolen.
Local Mechanic and Muffler shops have repaired or replaced multiple catalytic converters
where the victim never made a police report; and,
WHEREAS, on September 1, 2021, Texas H.B. 4110 was enacted to help combat
the rise in catalytic converter thefts, however, the bill only addressed those trying to sell
and purchase catalytic converters. Multiple cities across the country and Texas are trying
to help combat the thefts via possession ordinances.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS, THAT:
ARTICLE VI. — CATALYTIC CONVERTER
Sec. 78-90. - Definitions.
The following words, terms, and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the
meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a
different meaning:
Catalytic Converter. An exhaust emission control device that reduces toxic gases and
pollutants from internal combustion: this includes any material removed from a catalytic
converter.
Metal Recycling Entity. A business that is operated from a fixed location and is engaged
in the practice as defined in the Occupations Code Title 12, Chapter 1956.
Sec. 78-91. — Possession of a Catalytic Converter.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person or entity other than a metal recycler to possess a
used catalytic converter that was removed from a motor vehicle unless the individual
or entity provides the following:
(1) Provide proof of ownership of the motor vehicle from which the converter was
removed, and can reasonably link the catalytic converter to the vehicle.
a. Proof of ownership includes a copy of the certificate of title or other
documentation indication the person has an ownership interest in the
vehicle from which the catalytic converter was removed.
b. Year, make, model, and vehicle identification number for the vehicle from
which the catalytic converter was removed; or,
(2) The person or entity presents proof the possession of the catalytic converter
lawfully passed from the owner of the vehicle from which the converter was
removed to the person in possession of the converter.
(b) Each catalytic converter in an individual or entity's possession shall constitute a
separate offense.
Sec. 78-92. — Enforcement
(a) Violation of this chapter is a Class C misdemeanor and shall be fined for this offense
not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500.00).
Sec. 78-93-78-100. Reserved.
1. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
2. It is the intention of the City Council of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, that the
provisions of this ordinance shall become a part of the Code of Ordinances of
the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, and that sections of this ordinance may be
renumbered or relettered to accomplish such intention.
3. Should any word, phrase, paragraph, section or portion of this ordinance or the
Code of Ordinances, as amended hereby, be held to be void or
unconstitutional, the same shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions
of said ordinance or the Code of Ordinances, as amended hereby, which shall
remain in full force and effect.
4. This ordinance shall become effective on December 15, 2022.
PASSED AND APPROVED this the 15th day of November, 2022.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
City Clerk