Registering an OHV in Colorado

Oh, the joy of hitting those Colorado trails! There's truly nothing like it, is there? The crisp mountain air, the stunning vistas, the camaraderie of fellow riders… it's pure bliss. But before you can experience all that, there's often a bit of a headache involved: figuring out the ins and outs of registering your off-highway vehicle (OHV) here in the Centennial State. It’s not always straightforward, and many folks, even seasoned riders, find themselves scratching their heads trying to decipher the rules. This guide is here to cut through the confusion and walk you through everything you need to know about getting your ATV, UTV, or dirt bike legally registered and ready for adventure.

Understanding Colorado's OHV Registration System

Let's face it, the paperwork side of owning an OHV can feel like navigating a particularly rocky trail – confusing, full of unexpected turns, and sometimes you just want to throw your hands up. One of the biggest points of confusion for new and even long-time Colorado OHV owners is the distinction between "registration" and "titling." It’s not quite like registering your car, which often bundles everything into one process. Here, these are two separate beasts, handled by different agencies, and understanding that difference is your first step to smooth sailing.

Why OHV Registration is Different from Car Registration in Colorado

When you register your car, you typically go to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or your county Clerk and Recorder's office. You get plates, a registration card, and perhaps a sticker for your windshield, all tied to the vehicle's title, which proves ownership. Easy enough, right?

But for OHVs in Colorado, it's a different ballgame. Our state separates the "permission to ride on public lands" from "proof of ownership." The Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) handles the registration process, which is essentially your annual permit to access the incredible network of trails, forest roads, and open riding areas that make Colorado an OHV paradise. This registration helps fund trail maintenance, safety programs, and enforcement efforts – a crucial component of keeping our riding areas in tip-top shape. On the other hand, the actual titling of your OHV, which establishes legal ownership, is indeed handled by the Colorado Department of Revenue, typically through your county motor vehicle office, much like a car. This dual-agency approach can leave many new owners feeling lost, wondering why they need two sets of paperwork for one machine. It's a common frustration, but once you understand their distinct roles, it starts to make a lot more sense. Think of it this way: the title proves it's yours, and the CPW registration proves you have permission to play on public lands. You can have one without the other, but to truly enjoy your machine and protect your investment, you really need both.

Who Needs to Register an OHV in Colorado?

This is a question that comes up a lot, and the answer, while seeming simple, has a few important nuances. Generally speaking, if you plan to ride your ATV, UTV, dirt bike, or any other OHV on public lands in Colorado – that means Forest Service roads, BLM trails, State Parks, and designated riding areas – you absolutely need a current Colorado OHV registration. It doesn't matter if you're a resident or just visiting; the rules apply to everyone enjoying our beautiful state.

For Colorado residents, this is an annual requirement. For non-residents, a non-resident OHV permit serves the same purpose, granting you access to those trails. Both are essentially a user fee that supports the very trails you're riding. Now, what about machines kept exclusively on private land? Many folks assume if they're only riding on their own property, they don't need to register. And technically, for CPW registration, you don't have to if your wheels never touch public ground. However, there are still some good reasons to consider it, even if you’re a private land purist. For instance, if you ever decide to sell your machine, having a current registration history can make the process smoother, especially if the new owner plans to hit the trails. Plus, accidents can happen anywhere, and having your machine properly documented can simplify things later. We have a whole article dedicated to [Colorado OHV Registration for Machines Kept on Private Land] if you want to dive deeper into that specific scenario. Finally, there are some agricultural exemptions for machines used exclusively for farming or ranching operations, but these are fairly specific and don't apply to recreational use.

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Registration Process

So, you're ready to get your OHV registered with CPW and start exploring. Great! The process itself isn't overly complicated once you know what to expect. It's all about having your ducks in a row before you begin. Gathering the right documents and knowing where to go are the key first steps to a smooth experience. Trust me, nobody wants to show up to register, only to realize they've forgotten a crucial piece of paper and have to make a second trip!

Gathering Your Required Documents

The cornerstone of a successful OHV registration is solid proof of ownership. This is often where people hit a snag, especially when dealing with older machines or private sales where the previous owner might not have been as meticulous with paperwork. Generally, you'll need one of the following to show CPW that you are indeed the rightful owner of the machine you're trying to register:

• A Bill of Sale: This is probably the most common document, especially for private party purchases. A well-written bill of sale should include the buyer's and seller's names and addresses, the date of sale, a clear description of the OHV (make, model, year, and crucially, the Vehicle Identification Number or VIN), the purchase price, and signatures from both parties. This is your primary evidence. Many people find templates online, and services like LawDepot can be incredibly helpful for drafting legal documents like a bill of sale, ensuring all the necessary details are covered to prevent future headaches.
• Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO): If you're buying a brand-new OHV from a dealer, this is the document they'll provide. It's essentially the birth certificate for your machine, indicating it's new and has never been titled or registered before.
• Previous Registration or Title: If you're registering an OHV that was previously registered in Colorado (and you have the proper transfer of ownership), or if you're bringing a machine from another state that had a title, these can serve as proof.
• Notarized Affidavit of Ownership: In some rare cases, if traditional proof of ownership is impossible to obtain, you might be able to use a notarized affidavit, but this is usually a last resort and often involves more hoops to jump through.

You'll also need a valid form of personal identification, such as a driver's license or state ID. Having all of this in order before you even walk out the door or log online will save you a ton of time and frustration. We've got more specific guidance on [Proof of Ownership for a Colorado OHV] and even [ATV Bill of Sale Wording That Holds Up] if you want to make sure your documents are ironclad.

Where and How to Register Your OHV

Once you have your paperwork ready, you have a few convenient options for getting your OHV registered with CPW. They've really tried to make it accessible, which is a big help when you're busy planning your next trail ride.

The easiest and often quickest method for many is online registration. The CPW website has a dedicated portal where you can enter your information, upload necessary documents (like a scan of your bill of sale), and pay the fee with a credit card. It’s convenient, available 24/7, and you don’t have to leave your couch. Another option is to register by phone. If you prefer to talk to a person or have a few questions, you can call the CPW registration unit, and they can guide you through the process. We have the [Buying a Colorado OHV Registration by Phone] details for those who prefer this method.

If you like doing things in person or need assistance, you can visit one of the many authorized CPW vendor locations throughout the state. Think sporting goods stores, some hardware stores, or even tackle shops – places where you'd typically buy a fishing license or hunting tag. These vendors are equipped to process your OHV registration on the spot, and you'll usually walk out with your temporary registration card right away. This is often the preferred method for those who like to have immediate confirmation. You can find a list of [Colorado OHV Registration Vendors Across the State] to locate one near you. Finally, you can also register by mail. While it takes a bit longer to process, it’s a good option if you’re not in a hurry and prefer to send everything in. This often involves downloading a form from the CPW website, filling it out, and sending it along with your proof of ownership and payment. For all the specifics, check out our guide on [Ordering a Colorado OHV Permit by Mail].

What You Get After Registering

After successfully registering your OHV with CPW, you'll receive a couple of very important items that you'll need to keep track of. The first is your registration card. This is a small, typically paper or thin plastic card that contains your OHV's information (make, model, VIN), your name, and the expiration date of the registration. It's crucial to keep this card on your person or, ideally, on the machine itself (in a waterproof holder) whenever you're riding on public lands. A ranger might ask to see it during a routine check, and you want to be able to produce it without a fuss.

The second, and perhaps most recognizable, item is the OHV decal or sticker. This is a brightly colored, weather-resistant sticker that must be prominently displayed on your OHV. The color changes each year, making it easy for enforcement officers to quickly see if your machine is current. CPW is very specific about where this sticker needs to go, and it varies slightly depending on your machine type. For ATVs, it typically goes on the front half of the machine, often on the fender or handlebars, in a spot that's clearly visible. Side-by-sides usually have a designated spot on the driver's side front fender or near the dash. Dirt bikes have their own placement rules, often on the forks or front number plate. Make sure you adhere to these guidelines to avoid any issues on the trail. We have dedicated articles on [Where the Colorado OHV Sticker Goes], [Where to Stick an OHV Decal on a Four-Wheel ATV], [OHV Decal Placement on a Side-by-Side], and [Colorado Sticker Placement on a Dirt Bike] to ensure you get it right. Proper placement ensures your machine is easily identifiable as legally registered, letting you focus on the ride ahead.

Understanding OHV Registration Fees and Validity

One of the less exciting, but absolutely necessary, parts of OHV ownership is understanding the costs and how long your registration actually lasts. It's not just a random fee; that money goes to a good cause. Knowing the validity period helps you avoid the dreaded "unregistered" citation, which can quickly put a damper on your trail day. Let's dig into the details so there are no surprises.

Breaking Down the Registration Costs

When you pay your Colorado OHV registration fee, you're not just buying a sticker; you're investing in the very trails and resources you love to use. The funds collected through OHV registrations are dedicated to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife's OHV Program. This program is responsible for a huge array of tasks, including the maintenance and improvement of motorized trails, development of new riding areas, educational programs for riders, safety enforcement, and even providing grants to local clubs and land managers for OHV-related projects. Without these funds, our amazing trail systems simply wouldn't be what they are.

The registration fee itself is a flat annual rate. Unlike some purchases, you generally won't pay sales tax directly on the registration fee, as it's considered a user fee rather than a purchase of goods. While I can't provide exact current figures (they can change over time!), you can always find the most up-to-date information on the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. Knowing [What Colorado OHV Registration Costs] is crucial for budgeting your annual riding expenses. It's a small price to pay for access to hundreds of miles of incredible riding opportunities across the state.

The Registration Year and Expiration

This is a key piece of information that often trips people up. Unlike car registrations that might expire on your birthday or a specific month you chose, Colorado OHV registrations operate on a fixed annual cycle. The Colorado OHV registration year consistently runs from April 1st through March 31st of the following year. This means that no matter when you register your OHV within that window, the registration will always expire on March 31st.

For example, if you register your machine on April 15th, it's valid for almost a full year. However, if you buy a new machine and register it in, say, November, that registration will still expire on March 31st of the next year. This can feel a little unfair if you register late in the cycle, as you're paying the full annual fee for a shorter period of use. It's a common point of frustration for riders who purchase machines mid-season, but it's important to remember that it's a fixed cycle for everyone. You can read more about this in [Colorado's OHV Registration Year Runs April to March]. If you purchase a machine in July, for instance, your registration will still only be valid until the following March 31st. We cover this specific scenario in [Colorado OHV Registration for a Machine Bought in July], so you know what to expect. Keeping this annual cycle in mind helps you plan your purchases and renewals effectively.

Renewing Your Colorado OHV Registration

When March 31st rolls around, it's time to renew your OHV registration. CPW usually tries to send out renewal reminders, either by mail or email, to give you a heads-up. However, it's ultimately your responsibility to ensure your registration is current. Don't rely solely on those reminders, as sometimes they can get lost in the shuffle!

The renewal process is very similar to the initial registration process. You can renew your registration online through the CPW website, which is often the most convenient method. You'll typically need your previous registration number or the machine's VIN to look up your record. Many riders also choose to renew by mail or in person at a vendor location. Renewing early is always a good idea, especially if you plan on hitting the trails right as the spring riding season opens in April. You don't want to find yourself with an expired sticker and no access to your favorite trails. Missing the renewal deadline can lead to some unwelcome consequences. If you're caught riding an unregistered machine on public lands, you could face fines and penalties. Nobody wants a ticket to spoil a perfectly good ride! Make sure to mark your calendar or set a digital reminder for your annual renewal. We dive deeper into the convenience of [Colorado OHV Registration Renewal Online] and the potential consequences of neglecting it in [Penalties for an Unregistered OHV in Colorado].

Special Considerations for OHV Registration

Sometimes, the standard registration process doesn't quite fit your situation. Maybe you bought a used machine from a private party, or you've just moved to Colorado with your trusty quad. Perhaps your OHV is primarily for work on the farm. These scenarios introduce specific questions and procedures you'll need to navigate. Understanding these special considerations beforehand can save you a lot of grief and ensure you stay on the right side of Colorado's regulations.

Registering a Used OHV in Colorado

Buying a used OHV can be a fantastic way to get into the sport without breaking the bank. However, the registration process for a used machine, especially from a private seller, requires a bit more diligence on your part. The biggest hurdle is ensuring you have proper proof of ownership from the previous owner. You need a clear and legal chain of title, or at least a solid bill of sale, to prove the machine is now yours.

Always insist on a detailed bill of sale that includes the seller's information, your information, the date of sale, the machine's make, model, year, and crucially, its VIN. Both buyer and seller should sign it. A service like LawDepot can provide a robust bill of sale template, ensuring you don't miss any critical legal language. Without this, CPW may refuse to register the machine in your name, leaving you with an expensive piece of metal you can't legally ride. If the seller can't provide a previous registration card or title, and only has a bill of sale, that signed bill of sale is generally acceptable proof for CPW registration, but remember, titling with the DMV will have its own, stricter requirements. It's a good idea to check the VIN against theft records before you buy. Our article on [Buying a Used ATV in Colorado: The Paperwork] gives you a comprehensive checklist of what to look for and how to protect yourself in a private sale.

Registering an Out-of-State OHV in Colorado

Welcome to Colorado! If you've just moved here, or you're a seasonal resident bringing your OHV from another state, you'll need to get it properly registered for use on Colorado's public lands. The good news is, it's a fairly straightforward process, similar to registering a new machine.

For new full-time residents, you'll generally follow the same CPW registration process as any other Colorado resident. You'll need proof of ownership (your out-of-state title or registration, combined with a bill of sale if you recently purchased it) and your Colorado identification. The state wants to ensure all machines using its public land resources are contributing to the OHV program through registration fees. Seasonal residents or those just visiting for a trip will need to purchase a non-resident OHV permit. This permit serves the same function as a resident registration, granting you legal access to Colorado's public OHV trails for the permit's validity period. You can typically purchase these online, by phone, or from vendor locations upon arrival in Colorado. Regardless of your residency status, understanding [Registering an Out-of-State Machine in Colorado] and [Colorado OHV Registration for Seasonal Residents] will guide you through the specific requirements, ensuring your machine is ready to roll on Colorado trails without any legal hiccups.

Agricultural and Business Use Exemptions

Not every OHV in Colorado is used for recreation. Many are vital tools for ranchers, farmers, and businesses. Colorado law does provide some specific exemptions from the CPW OHV registration requirements for machines used primarily for agricultural or utility purposes.

If your ATV or UTV is used exclusively for legitimate agricultural operations on private land, such as herding cattle, fence repair, or transporting tools around a farm, it might be exempt from CPW registration. However, this exemption typically only applies when the machine is used for those specific agricultural purposes and not for recreational riding, even on the farm. If you occasionally take it out for a pleasure ride on public lands, then you'd still need to register it. It’s important to understand the precise definition of "agricultural use" to ensure you truly qualify for an exemption. We cover these nuances in [Agricultural Exemptions From Colorado OHV Rules]. Similarly, if you own an OHV under a business entity, such as an LLC, and use it for commercial purposes (like a tour operator or a guide service), you'll typically still need to register it with CPW, but you might register it under your business name. There are specific rules for [Registering an OHV Under a Colorado Business] that business owners should be aware of to ensure compliance. It's always best to err on the side of caution and check the most current regulations if you believe your machine might fall under an exemption, as misinterpreting the rules can lead to fines.

The Difference Between Registration and Titling

I know we touched on this briefly, but it's such a critical point of confusion for so many OHV owners in Colorado that it deserves its own deep dive. When you're dealing with two different government agencies (CPW and the Department of Revenue/DMV) for what seems like a single machine, it's easy to get lost. But once you grasp the fundamental difference between the two, the entire system clicks into place. This understanding is key to being a responsible and protected OHV owner.

Why You Need Both a Title and a Registration

This is the big one. Let's break it down simply:

• The Title: Proof of Ownership. Think of your OHV's title as the deed to your house or the pink slip for your car. It's the legal document issued by the Colorado Department of Revenue (through your county motor vehicle office) that formally establishes you as the rightful owner of that specific machine. It includes the VIN, make, model, and year, and it's what you'd use to prove ownership if you ever sell the OHV, need to get a loan against it, or if it were stolen. Without a title in your name, proving you own the machine can become incredibly difficult and can lead to significant headaches down the line.
• The Registration: Permission to Play. As we discussed, the CPW registration is your annual permit or "user fee" that grants you legal access to ride your OHV on public lands within Colorado. It demonstrates that you've contributed to the OHV program that maintains those trails. It's not about ownership; it's about privilege and funding the resources you use.

So, why do you need both? You need the title to legally own your machine and the registration to legally ride it on public land. You could technically own an OHV (have the title) but not register it if you only ever ride it on private property. Conversely, you could register a borrowed OHV (with the owner's permission and proof of ownership) even if it's not titled in your name, but that's a rare scenario. For the vast majority of recreational riders, having both a title in your name and a current CPW registration is the ideal and safest path. Our article on [Colorado OHV Title Versus CPW Registration] lays out these distinctions in detail, helping you avoid any misconceptions.

When and How to Title Your OHV

Titling your OHV in Colorado typically happens at your local county Clerk and Recorder's office, which handles motor vehicle services for the Department of Revenue. This is the same place you'd title your car or truck. The process usually involves a few key steps and documents:

1. Proof of Ownership: This is paramount. If you bought a new OHV from a dealer, they'll typically provide you with the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO). For a used machine, you'll need the properly assigned title from the previous owner. If the machine was never titled (common for older machines or those brought from states that don't title OHVs), you might need a certified bill of sale and possibly even a bond in some situations to get a title issued.
2. Bill of Sale: Even with an MSO or a previous title, a bill of sale is almost always required to establish the purchase price for sales tax calculation. Make sure it's complete and signed. LawDepot offers excellent templates that can help you create a professional and legally sound bill of sale.
3. Personal Identification: Your driver's license or state ID is always needed.
4. Sales Tax Payment: Colorado sales tax (state and local) is typically collected at the time of titling. If you bought from a dealer, they would usually collect this for you. For private sales, you're responsible for paying it to the county.

The county office will verify your documents, collect any applicable fees (title fee, sales tax), and then process your application. You'll usually receive the physical title by mail a few weeks later. Don't underestimate the importance of titling your OHV, even if you plan to get a CPW registration first. We offer comprehensive guides on [Titling an Off-Highway Vehicle in Colorado] and [Titling an OHV at the Colorado DMV] to help you through every step.

Avoiding Common Titling Pitfalls

The titling process can sometimes be a minefield of small details that can cause big delays. Being aware of these common pitfalls can help you navigate the system more smoothly:

• Missing or Incorrect Signatures: If you're buying a used OHV, ensure the seller properly signs the existing title in all the designated spots. An incomplete or incorrect signature can invalidate the transfer, forcing you to track down the previous owner, which can be a nightmare. This is a common issue when dealing with private sales, and the DMV can be very strict about it. Check out [Colorado ATV Title With a Missing Seller Signature] for advice on how to handle this specific problem.
• No Previous Title Available: For older machines, or those purchased from states that don't issue titles for OHVs, the seller might not have a physical title to hand over. In these cases, you might be able to apply for a bonded title in Colorado, which involves purchasing a surety bond to protect against claims from a rightful owner who might appear later. This is a more complex process and usually involves more paperwork and cost. Our article on [Bonded Title for an ATV in Colorado] explains this in detail.
• Liens on the Title: Always check the title for any recorded liens (from a lender, for example). If there's an outstanding lien, the seller must provide a lien release document proving the loan has been paid off. If a lien is still active, the seller doesn't have a clear title to transfer, and you could end up responsible for the debt. We also have detailed information on [Liens on a Colorado OHV Title].
• Salvage or Rebuilt Titles: If the OHV has been declared a total loss by an insurance company, it might carry a "salvage" title. If it's been repaired, it might have a "rebuilt" title. These titles come with specific implications for future resale value and insurance coverage, and the DMV will have particular requirements for transferring them. Always understand what you're getting into with a salvage machine.

Taking the time to scrutinize all paperwork before finalizing a purchase, especially from a private seller, is critical. Don't be afraid to ask questions or even walk away from a deal if the paperwork doesn't feel right.

What Happens If Your OHV Isn't Registered or Titled Correctly

It's tempting to think, "What's the big deal if I just skip a sticker or a piece of paper?" But in the world of OHV ownership, cutting corners on registration and titling can lead to serious headaches, legal trouble, and financial losses. Trust me, the small amount of effort and money you put into proper documentation now can save you a whole lot of grief down the trail. Nobody wants their adventure to end with a ticket or, worse, losing their machine.

Penalties for Riding an Unregistered Machine

The most immediate and common consequence of not having a current CPW OHV registration is facing penalties when riding on public lands. Colorado Parks and Wildlife rangers, Forest Service law enforcement, and county sheriffs regularly patrol popular OHV areas and trailheads. They perform spot checks, and if your OHV doesn't have a valid, properly displayed registration decal, you can expect to be cited.

The penalties typically involve fines, which can add up quickly and easily outweigh the cost of annual registration. Beyond the financial hit, an unregistered machine could potentially lead to your ride being cut short or, in some circumstances, even impoundment if there are other contributing factors or repeated offenses. It's a frustrating situation to be in, and it's entirely avoidable. These citations aren't just a slap on the wrist; they're meant to reinforce the importance of contributing to the funding of our trail systems. Nobody wants to be the person explaining why their awesome day of riding ended with a ticket, all because of a missing sticker. Our guide on [Penalties for an Unregistered OHV in Colorado] details the specific fines and other consequences you might encounter.

Issues with Selling or Buying an Untitled OHV

When an OHV isn't properly titled in the seller's name, or worse, has no title at all, it creates a cascade of problems for both parties. For the seller, it can be incredibly difficult to find a buyer, as most informed purchasers will shy away from a machine without clear ownership documents. It raises immediate red flags about the machine's history and legality.

For the buyer, purchasing an untitled OHV is a significant risk. Without a title, you have no legal proof that the seller was the rightful owner, and therefore, you might not legally own the machine yourself. This makes it challenging, if not impossible, to get a title issued in your name, which in turn means you can't officially prove ownership. This opens you up to potential fraud, disputes with previous owners, or even discovering the machine was stolen. Even if you have a bill of sale, its strength as proof of ownership is significantly diminished without a corresponding title. This scenario can leave you with a machine that you can't legally sell, finance, or even properly insure. Services like LawDepot are excellent for creating robust bills of sale, but even the best bill of sale won't fully compensate for a missing or improperly transferred title when dealing with the DMV. It's always best to insist on a clear title transfer, or be prepared for the lengthy and potentially costly process of obtaining a bonded title.

Recovering a Stolen Machine Without Proper Paperwork

This is perhaps the most heartbreaking scenario for an OHV owner. Having your ATV or UTV stolen is a gut-wrenching experience, but the difficulty of recovering it skyrockets if you don't have proper documentation. Your title, with its unique VIN, is the ultimate proof of ownership. If your machine is stolen and you can't produce a title in your name, law enforcement will have a much harder time verifying that the machine belongs to you, even if you have keys or other anecdotal evidence.

Without a title or even a current registration card, it becomes incredibly difficult to prove to the police, insurance companies, or potential recovery services that the machine is indeed yours. Imagine trying to explain to an officer that the machine found with a suspicious person is yours, but you have no official paper linking it to you. The VIN is the machine's unique identifier, but without a title establishing your ownership of that specific VIN, you're at a huge disadvantage. Proper titling and registration mean that your machine's VIN is officially recorded as belonging to you, making it far easier for authorities to track, identify, and return your property. Don't let your passion turn into a nightmare due to a lack of paperwork. Our article [Recovering a Stolen ATV in Colorado] emphasizes why meticulous record-keeping is your best defense against theft and your best friend if the unthinkable happens.

Comparing Colorado OHV Registration & Titling

To summarize the key differences and help you keep it all straight, here's a handy comparison table. This should clarify which agency does what and the purpose of each document.

Feature	CPW OHV Registration	Colorado OHV Title (DMV/County)
Purpose	Permission to operate on public lands	Legal proof of ownership
Issued By	Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW)	Colorado Department of Revenue (County DMV offices)
Document Received	Registration card & annual decal	Paper title certificate
Validity	Annually (April 1 – March 31)	Remains valid until transferred to a new owner
Cost	Annual fee (variable)	One-time fee upon transfer or first issuance
Required For	Public land riding, non-resident permits	Selling, buying, financing, legal proof of ownership
Enforcement	CPW Rangers, Forest Service, Sheriff	Law enforcement for theft/fraud, lenders
Key Document	Current registration card & decal	Title certificate with VIN

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Laws, prices and regulations vary by location and change over time. Consult a qualified professional for guidance on your specific situation.