Resident asks county to consider stricter catalytic‑converter possession ordinance; board asks staff to consult sheriff and DA

A member of the public urged the Board of Supervisors on March 11 to consider a local ordinance restricting possession of catalytic converters, citing state law that allows possession of up to eight converters and local impacts from theft. The speaker said he has worked with other counties to pass local ordinances and urged San Luis Obispo County to consider similar action.

Daryl Terrell (a resident who said he traveled from Riverside County) described his efforts to work with county boards and cities to adopt more restrictive possession rules and asked the board to review the county’s options. Supervisor Bruce Gibson asked staff to consult with the sheriff, the district attorney’s office and incoming County Counsel and report back to the board on whether the county is experiencing catalytic‑converter theft at a level that would justify a local ordinance and what legal or enforcement options are available. Supervisor Perchong (and others) noted state bill AB 641, which currently allows possession of up to eight catalytic converters, as background to the problem.

The board did not adopt an ordinance at the meeting; instead members indicated general support for staff to research the issue and return with a report. The CAO and County Counsel staff were asked to add the item to a future tasks list and to consult with public safety partners.

Ending: Staff were directed to consult the Sheriff and District Attorney about the local scale of catalytic‑converter theft, to review statutory constraints (AB 641), and to return with options for board consideration.