Newfoundland Registration Paperwork Explained

Trying to get your ATV or UTV registered in Newfoundland can sometimes feel like you're trying to solve a riddle wrapped in an enigma, especially when it comes to gathering all the right paperwork. It's easy to get frustrated, wondering if you've got every single sheet, signature, and stamp needed just to get out on the trails. This guide is here to untangle that knot, walking you through every piece of documentation you'll need, whether you're buying new, used, or dealing with special circumstances.

The Initial Hurdle: Why Paperwork Feels Like a Mountain

We've all been there, standing in front of a counter, holding a stack of papers, only to be told one crucial piece is missing. It feels like a massive waste of time, and honestly, it can be! The process of registering an off-road vehicle in Newfoundland, while designed to be straightforward, can quickly become overwhelming if you don't know exactly what to expect. This isn't just about collecting documents; it's about understanding the logic behind each requirement.

Understanding the "Why" Behind the Forms

Every piece of paper the Motor Registration Division asks for serves a specific purpose, even if it doesn't always feel obvious at first glance. Think of it like building a house – each permit and inspection ensures the structure is safe, legitimate, and up to code. For your ATV or UTV, the paperwork confirms legal ownership, ensures taxes are properly paid, and links the machine to a responsible owner. This structure is in place to protect riders, other trail users, and the province itself, making sure every machine on our trails is accounted for and legally operated under [Newfoundland's Off-Road Vehicles Act].

For example, proving who bought the machine and from whom establishes a clear chain of ownership. This is vital for preventing theft and ensuring that if a machine is involved in an incident, authorities can trace it back to the rightful owner. Similarly, tax documentation ensures fair revenue collection for public services. While it might feel like an endless parade of forms, each one contributes to a safer, more accountable riding environment for everyone who enjoys our beautiful Newfoundland landscapes.

The Fear of Getting It Wrong and the Cost of Mistakes

It’s completely normal to feel a bit of anxiety about registration paperwork. Nobody wants to drive all the way to Motor Registration, wait in line, and then discover they're missing a critical form. That kind of mistake doesn't just cost you time out of your day; it can mean lost wages, extra fuel costs, and the sheer frustration of having to start the process all over again. Imagine taking a day off work, travelling an hour to the city, and then being sent home because a signature was missed on a bill of sale – it's enough to make anyone throw their hands up!

Beyond the immediate inconvenience, errors can also delay your ability to ride your machine legally. You might have friends waiting to hit the trails, or you might be eager to use your ATV for hunting or cabin access, but without proper registration, you're grounded. The cost of a missed registration isn't just financial; it's also the missed opportunities and the annoyance of a process dragging on longer than it needs to. Taking the time to prepare thoroughly can save you a world of headaches down the line.

Common Misconceptions About What's Needed

One of the biggest sources of confusion stems from outdated information or assuming the rules are the same everywhere. For instance, some folks might think that if they're only riding on their own private land or at their cabin, they don't need to bother with registration. While certain very specific exemptions might apply in unique circumstances (like a very old machine used solely on private land and never crossing a public way), generally speaking, if your machine is capable of being ridden off-road, it needs to be registered.

Another common misconception is believing that a simple handwritten note from the seller is sufficient as a bill of sale. While a basic note is a start, it often lacks the crucial details needed to satisfy the Registrar, such as the seller's full legal name, address, contact information, and their Newfoundland and Labrador Tax Registrant (HST) number for private sales. Sometimes, people also forget that vehicles passed down through family, or even gifts, still require formal transfer of ownership documentation, often leading to a scramble for missing paperwork. Understanding these nuances upfront can save a lot of grief.

Essential Documents for a Brand New Machine

Buying a brand-new ATV or UTV from a licensed dealer in Newfoundland is often the smoothest path to registration, largely because dealers are familiar with the required paperwork and can often help guide you through the initial steps. However, even with their assistance, it's crucial for you to understand each document and its purpose. Being informed empowers you to double-check everything and ensure no detail is overlooked before you leave the dealership or visit Motor Registration.

The New Vehicle Information Statement (NVIS)

When you purchase a brand-new off-road vehicle from a dealer, one of the most critical documents you'll receive is the New Vehicle Information Statement, often referred to as an NVIS. This isn't just another piece of paper; it's the official declaration from the manufacturer that your machine is new, has never been registered before, and meets all applicable Canadian standards. Think of it as the birth certificate for your ATV or UTV. Without an NVIS, Motor Registration cannot process the initial registration of a new machine, as it confirms its origin and legal status.

The NVIS contains essential information about your machine, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model, year, and engine size. It also confirms that any applicable federal taxes have been addressed. It's the first link in the ownership chain, confirming that you are the inaugural owner of this particular vehicle. Always ensure you receive the original NVIS from your dealer. This document is non-negotiable for registering a new machine, and the Motor Registration Division will require it when you apply for your [Newfoundland ORV Registration You Pay Once]. [Newfoundland Requires an NVIS for a New Machine] before you can even think about hitting the trails.

Proof of Purchase from the Dealer

While the NVIS establishes the machine's new status, your proof of purchase confirms the transaction itself. This typically comes in the form of a detailed bill of sale or a sales agreement from the dealership. This document should clearly outline the purchase price, any trade-in details, financing terms (if applicable), and all taxes paid. It serves as your legal receipt and evidence that you are the rightful owner who acquired the machine directly from a licensed vendor.

The bill of sale will also include the dealer's information, such as their business name, address, and provincial vendor number, along with your full name and address as the purchaser. This is critical for tax purposes and for ensuring a clear transfer of ownership from the dealer to you. Make sure the VIN on the bill of sale exactly matches the VIN on your NVIS and on the machine itself. Any discrepancies, even a single digit, can cause significant delays at Motor Registration. Hold onto this document carefully, as it's a key part of your machine's history.

Identity and Address Verification

Even if you're buying a machine brand new from a dealer who knows you, you'll still need to provide proof of your identity and your current Newfoundland residency when you go to register the machine. This is a standard procedure designed to confirm who you are and that you legitimately live in the province. Generally, your valid Newfoundland and Labrador driver's licence will serve as both proof of identity and proof of address. However, if your driver's licence doesn't reflect your current address, or if you don't have a provincial driver's licence, you'll need additional documentation.

Acceptable forms of identity usually include a valid passport, a government-issued photo ID card, or a birth certificate. For proof of address, if your driver's licence isn't sufficient, you might need recent utility bills (electricity, phone, internet), a rental agreement, or property tax assessments that clearly show your name and current residential address in Newfoundland. These measures are in place to ensure that the vehicle is registered to a real person at a verifiable location, which is important for communication from Motor Registration and for overall accountability under the [Newfoundland's Off-Road Vehicles Act].

Navigating Used Machine Purchases: The Bill of Sale Maze

Buying a used ATV or UTV can be a fantastic way to get into the sport without the brand-new price tag. However, the paperwork for a used machine can be significantly more complex than for a new one, particularly if the machine has changed hands multiple times. The key to a smooth used-machine registration lies in understanding the "chain of ownership" and ensuring every link is accounted for with proper documentation. Missing a piece here can send you down a rabbit hole of affidavits and frustrated phone calls.

Why Every Owner Needs to Be on the Chain

Imagine your ATV's ownership history as a continuous chain, with each bill of sale representing a link. For Motor Registration to confidently transfer the machine into your name, they need to see an unbroken chain, proving that the person selling it to you legally acquired it from the previous owner, who legally acquired it from their previous owner, and so on, all the way back to the original NVIS or the first registration. If there's a missing link – say, the person selling you the machine only has a bill of sale from someone other than the last registered owner – the chain is broken.

This unbroken chain is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it prevents the registration of stolen vehicles. If there’s a gap, it raises a red flag that the current seller might not be the rightful owner. Secondly, it ensures that all applicable taxes have been accounted for throughout the machine’s history. Finally, it provides legal clarity for the Registrar, avoiding disputes over ownership down the line. That's why [Newfoundland Bills of Sale From Each Owner] is such an important guideline; you need to collect a legitimate bill of sale from every individual or entity who owned the machine since its last recorded registration.

Crafting a Bulletproof Bill of Sale and When LawDepot Helps

A basic handwritten note simply isn't going to cut it when you're buying a used ATV or UTV in Newfoundland. A "bulletproof" bill of sale is a detailed legal document that protects both the buyer and the seller and provides all the information Motor Registration needs. It should include the full legal names and addresses of both the buyer and seller, the date of sale, the purchase price, and a comprehensive description of the machine, including its make, model, year, and crucially, its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Always ensure the VIN is accurately recorded, as even a single digit can create significant issues.

Beyond these basics, a strong bill of sale will also include a clause stating the machine is being sold "as is," clearly indicating there are no warranties or guarantees from the seller. It's also essential to include the seller's Newfoundland and Labrador Tax Registrant (HST) number if it's a private sale where HST is applicable. If you're feeling unsure about how to draft such a comprehensive document, resources like LawDepot offer readily available templates for bills of sale that are often accepted by provincial registries, ensuring you cover all the necessary legal and administrative bases without having to create one from scratch. Using a professional template helps avoid common omissions that can lead to registration headaches.

When preparing your bill of sale, remember to get both the buyer's and seller's signatures, preferably witnessed by a third party, although a witness isn't always strictly required by Motor Registration itself. A good practice is to make at least two copies – one for the buyer, one for the seller, and an extra one for your records that you can bring to the registration office. The clearer and more complete your bill of sale, the smoother your experience at Motor Registration will be. It's the bedrock of your ownership claim.

The Importance of Accurate Seller Information

Collecting accurate and complete information from the seller is absolutely paramount when purchasing a used machine. This isn't just about knowing who you bought it from; it’s about providing Motor Registration with verifiable details that allow them to process the transfer of ownership smoothly and ensure all tax obligations are met. Your bill of sale needs to include the seller's full legal name, their current residential address, and a reliable contact number. Even if you've met them in person, having this information on paper is essential.

Crucially, for private sales in Newfoundland, you will likely need the seller's Newfoundland and Labrador Tax Registrant (HST) number. This number allows the province to track the sale for tax purposes, as provincial sales tax often applies to used vehicle transactions unless specific exemptions are met (like a direct family transfer). Without this HST number, Motor Registration may not be able to complete the transfer, leaving you in a difficult position. Don't be shy about asking for this information; it's a standard requirement, and a legitimate seller will understand its importance.

What to Do If the Original Bill of Sale is Missing

This is one of the most common and frustrating scenarios for used machine buyers: discovering a missing bill of sale somewhere in the ownership chain. Maybe the original owner lost it, or a previous seller simply didn't provide one. Whatever the reason, if you can't produce a clear, unbroken series of bills of sale all the way back to the last registered owner, you've got a problem. Motor Registration needs that paper trail to confirm legitimate ownership.

When an original bill of sale is missing from a prior owner, your path to registration will almost certainly involve a sworn affidavit. This legal document essentially allows an individual to swear under oath that they legitimately purchased the machine, even without the original paper proof. It's not a simple fix, as it requires a specific format and usually needs to be signed in front of a Commissioner for Oaths or a Notary Public. We’ll delve deeper into affidavits in the next section, but for now, understand that a missing bill of sale is a hurdle, not necessarily a dead end, but one that requires extra formal steps.

When Standard Paperwork Isn't Enough: Special Situations

While buying new or used with a clear paper trail is relatively straightforward, life often throws curveballs. There are specific situations where the standard bill of sale and NVIS aren't enough, and you'll need additional, more specialized documentation to complete your registration. These scenarios, like dealing with a missing link in ownership or handling a transfer after a death, require extra care and specific forms to satisfy the Motor Registration Division.

The Sworn Affidavit: For Missing Links in Ownership

As mentioned, if you find yourself with a broken chain of ownership – meaning you can't produce a bill of sale from a prior owner who was not the last registered owner – a sworn affidavit is often your solution. This is a formal legal document where an individual (usually the current seller, or even yourself if you're trying to re-register an old family machine) states under oath the details of how they came to possess the vehicle. It's a solemn declaration, and knowingly making false statements in an affidavit can carry serious legal consequences.

The affidavit needs to include specific details: the full names and addresses of the parties involved in the transaction where the bill of sale went missing, the date of that transaction, a detailed description of the ATV or UTV (including the VIN), and a clear explanation of why the original bill of sale is unavailable. It must be signed in the presence of a Commissioner for Oaths or a Notary Public, who will then stamp and sign the document, confirming it was properly sworn. LawDepot also provides templates for affidavits that can be adapted for situations like this, helping ensure you include all the legally required elements. Without this, Motor Registration simply won't have enough confidence in the ownership history to complete the transfer.

The Indemnity Form: Protecting the Registrar

In addition to a sworn affidavit, the Motor Registration Division might also require you to sign an indemnity form, especially if there's any ambiguity or potential risk associated with the ownership chain. An indemnity form is essentially a legal agreement where you, as the applicant, accept full responsibility and liability for any future claims or issues that might arise regarding the ownership of the ATV or UTV. By signing it, you "indemnify" or protect the Registrar and the provincial government from financial or legal repercussions should a legitimate prior owner come forward later, or if it's discovered that the machine was, for example, stolen.

This form provides an extra layer of protection for the province, acknowledging that while they are proceeding with registration based on the information provided (including your affidavit), there's a recognized risk. It's a standard procedure in situations where the paperwork isn't perfectly clean, and it allows the registration process to move forward where it might otherwise stall completely. [Newfoundland Sworn Affidavits and Indemnity Forms] are serious documents that should be understood before signing, as they shift potential future liabilities onto you.

Transfers of Ownership After a Death

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time, and dealing with administrative tasks like vehicle transfers can add to the burden. When an ATV or UTV needs to be transferred to an heir or sold as part of an estate, specific documentation is required beyond a standard bill of sale. The Motor Registration Division needs clear legal proof that the person transferring the vehicle has the legal authority to do so. This usually involves presenting the original death certificate of the deceased registered owner.

Additionally, you'll need documents proving who is legally authorized to handle the estate. This could be a will appointing an executor, or letters of administration issued by the courts if there was no will. The executor or administrator would then sign the transfer of ownership documents. If the machine is being transferred directly to a beneficiary named in a will, that documentation would be required. Thankfully, [Newfoundland Transfers on Death Cost Nothing] in terms of the transfer fee itself, recognizing the circumstances, but all the proper legal paperwork is still crucial.

Registering a Machine from an Auction or Seizure

Acquiring an ATV or UTV through an auction or a police seizure can present unique paperwork challenges. While these purchases can sometimes offer a good deal, the documentation process is distinct. When you buy from a legitimate auction house or through a government seizure process, the entity selling the machine will provide their own official proof of sale. This document serves as your bill of sale, often detailing the auction number, lot number, and all relevant machine identification.

However, the challenge often lies in the historical chain of ownership. If the auction house acquired the machine through a lien sale or a seizure, they may not have the complete previous ownership history. In such cases, you might still need to provide an affidavit explaining the circumstances of your purchase and potentially an indemnity form. It's always best to clarify exactly what documentation the auction house will provide before you bid, and understand that [Newfoundland Registration for an Auction Buy] might involve more than just the auction receipt to satisfy the Registrar.

Document Type	New Machine Purchase (Dealer)	Used Machine Purchase (Private)	Transfer After Death	Auction Purchase
New Vehicle Information Statement (NVIS)	Required	Not Applicable	Not Applicable	Not Applicable
Bill of Sale (from prior owner)	Not Applicable	Required (chain)	If sold by estate	Required (auction)
Sworn Affidavit	Not Applicable	Potentially (missing links)	Potentially (missing links)	Potentially
Indemnity Form	Not Applicable	Potentially	Potentially	Potentially
Death Certificate	Not Applicable	Not Applicable	Required	Not Applicable
Proof of Identity	Required	Required	Required	Required
Proof of Residency	Required	Required	Required	Required
Payment for Fees/Taxes	Required	Required	Required	Required

Proof of Residency and Identity: More Than Just a Driver's Licence

Whether you're a long-time resident or new to our beautiful province, proving who you are and where you live is a fundamental part of registering any off-road vehicle in Newfoundland. This isn't just about showing a piece of ID; it's about establishing a legal link between you, your machine, and your official address within the province. This ensures accountability and helps the Motor Registration Division communicate important information regarding your vehicle.

Acceptable Forms of ID

Your primary piece of identification should always be a valid, government-issued photo ID. For most Newfoundlanders, this will be your Newfoundland and Labrador driver's licence. It's typically accepted as both proof of identity and, often, proof of residency (assuming the address on it is current). However, if you don't have a provincial driver's licence, or if it's expired, you'll need alternatives.

Other generally accepted forms of photo identification include a valid Canadian passport, a provincial identification card (issued by Service NL), or a Canadian Permanent Resident card. Sometimes, even a certificate of Canadian citizenship or a birth certificate, when accompanied by another piece of non-photo ID like a health card or credit card, may be acceptable. The key is that the ID must clearly display your full legal name and, ideally, your date of birth, allowing the Registrar to accurately verify who you are. Always bring the original documents, not photocopies, as they will need to be visually inspected.

Confirming Your Newfoundland Address

Having a valid Newfoundland address is a non-negotiable requirement for registering an off-road vehicle in the province. If your driver's licence or primary photo ID doesn't show your current residential address, or if you're a new resident, you'll need additional documentation. This proves to Motor Registration that you are indeed living in Newfoundland and that any official correspondence regarding your registration will reach you.

Acceptable documents for proof of address often include recent utility bills (electricity, internet, landline phone bill – usually within the last 90 days), a current rental agreement or lease, property tax assessments, or even a recent pay stub showing your address. The document must be addressed directly to you at your current Newfoundland residence. Post office box numbers are generally not accepted as primary proof of residence, as they don't indicate a physical living address. Having at least two different pieces of documentation for proof of address is always a good idea, just in case one isn't deemed sufficient.

Newfoundland's 90-Day New Resident Rule

For those who have recently moved to Newfoundland and Labrador, there's a specific rule you need to be aware of: [Newfoundland's 90-Day New Resident Rule]. This rule dictates that if you've brought an off-road vehicle with you from another province or territory, you have a grace period of 90 days from the date you establish residency in Newfoundland to register that machine here. This is a reasonable timeframe, but it's important not to let it slip by.

After that 90-day window, your out-of-province registration may no longer be considered valid for operation within Newfoundland, and you could face penalties for riding an unregistered machine. Even if your previous province's registration is still technically active, Newfoundland's rules require you to transfer it over once you're a full-fledged resident. So, if you've recently made the move, make registering your ATV or UTV a priority within those first three months to ensure continuous legal operation on our trails.

The Financial Side: Taxes, Fees, and Payment Proof

Let's be realistic: nothing is truly free, and registering an ATV or UTV in Newfoundland is no exception. Beyond the paperwork that proves ownership and identity, there's also the financial aspect to consider. This includes understanding provincial sales tax, the actual registration fees, and ensuring you have acceptable proof of payment for all these costs. Getting these details right on the first try saves you from unexpected delays.

Understanding HST and Provincial Sales Tax

When you purchase an ATV or UTV in Newfoundland, whether new from a dealer or used from a private seller, you'll typically be subject to Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). For new machines bought from a dealer, the HST is usually added to the purchase price at the point of sale, and the dealer remits it to the government. You'll see this clearly itemized on your bill of sale.

For used machines purchased from a private seller, things can be a bit different, but generally, provincial sales tax (which is part of the HST) still applies. When you go to register the machine at Motor Registration, you'll be assessed the provincial portion of the HST based on the declared purchase price on your bill of sale. This is why having the seller's HST registrant number on the bill of sale for private sales is so important, as it helps the province track and collect these taxes. Be prepared for this additional cost when budgeting for your used machine. For a deeper dive, check out [Newfoundland HST on an ATV Purchase] and [Newfoundland Tax on a Private ATV Sale].

Newfoundland Registration Fees

Newfoundland operates on a one-time registration fee system for off-road vehicles, which is quite different from other provinces that require annual renewals. This means you pay once, and the registration is valid for as long as you own the machine. The exact fee depends on the type of machine you're registering. For example, [Newfoundland Charges $95 for an ATV], a figure that many quad owners are familiar with.

However, these fees are not universal across all off-road vehicle types. A trail bike, for instance, has a much lower fee, as does a snow groomer. There are also reduced rates for seniors. [Seniors Pay $55 to Register an ATV], offering a welcome discount to older riders. Similarly, transfer fees also exist, but can also be reduced for seniors, with [Newfoundland Transfers Cost $16 for Seniors]. It's always a good idea to check the current fee schedule with Motor Registration or on the Service NL website before your appointment, so you know exactly what to expect.

How Payment Proof Integrates with Registration

After all the documents are gathered and the fees and taxes are calculated, you'll need to pay up. When you visit Motor Registration, they accept various forms of payment, usually including debit cards, credit cards, and sometimes even cheques (though debit or credit is typically preferred for immediate processing). Regardless of your payment method, it’s critical to keep a record of your payment.

Once your registration is processed and paid for, you'll receive a receipt confirming the transaction. This receipt, along with your official registration permit (which might be mailed to you later), serves as your proof that all financial obligations have been met. It's a good practice to keep this receipt with your other important machine documents. Having clear proof of payment ensures there are no ambiguities later regarding whether your fees and taxes have been fully settled, allowing your [Newfoundland Registration Valid While You Own It] to proceed without a hitch.

The Application Process Itself: What to Expect at Motor Registration

You've gathered all your documents, understood the financial implications, and now it's time for the final step: visiting Motor Registration. While the thought of government offices can sometimes feel daunting, knowing the process and what to expect can make your visit much smoother and stress-free. Preparation is truly your best friend here.

Booking Your Appointment and What to Bring

Gone are the days of simply showing up and hoping for the best at government offices. In many areas of Newfoundland, and certainly at Motor Registration, it's highly recommended, and often required, to book an appointment in advance. This helps manage wait times and ensures that a clerk is available to assist you specifically with off-road vehicle registration. You can usually book these appointments online through the Service NL portal or by calling their main line. [Booking an Appointment at Motor Registration Before You Go] is a critical first step after you have your documents ready.

When your appointment day arrives, double-check that you have all your original documents with you. This includes your NVIS (for new machines) or chain of bills of sale (for used), any affidavits or indemnity forms, proof of identity, proof of address, and your method of payment. It's also a wise idea to bring photocopies of everything, just in case they are needed for their files, though generally, they'll scan the originals. A checklist is incredibly helpful to ensure nothing is forgotten.

What Happens During Your Appointment

Once you arrive for your appointment, you'll check in and be directed to a clerk. They will review all your submitted documents thoroughly. This is where all your hard work gathering the paperwork pays off. The clerk will verify the VIN on your documents matches the machine's VIN (though they won't physically inspect your machine, they rely on the paperwork), confirm the chain of ownership, check your identity and residency, and ensure all tax and fee requirements are met. They might ask clarifying questions about your purchase or circumstances, especially if there are any unusual aspects to your situation (like a missing bill of sale).

Once everything is verified and approved, they will process the registration. This involves entering your machine's details into the provincial system and collecting the appropriate fees and taxes. You'll receive a temporary registration document and a receipt for your payment on the spot. The actual permanent registration permit and your identification plate or decal (depending on the machine type) will typically be mailed to you at your registered address within a few weeks. Make sure all the details on your temporary document are correct before you leave.

Understanding Processing Times and Follow-Up

While you'll receive temporary proof of registration immediately, the official registration permit and your physical identification plate or decal for your ATV or UTV usually take some time to arrive in the mail. The exact [Newfoundland Registration Processing Time] can vary depending on the volume of applications and the time of year, but generally, you can expect it within a few weeks. It's important to understand that your temporary document allows you to legally operate your machine during this waiting period, so keep it handy!

If you haven't received your permanent registration or plate/decal after a reasonable period (say, four to six weeks), it's a good idea to follow up with Motor Registration. You can usually do this by calling the general Service NL inquiry line and referencing your temporary registration number or the date of your application. Ensure that the address you provided during registration is accurate and up-to-date, as any mail sent to an incorrect address could delay you getting your official documents.

Keeping Your Registration Up-to-Date

While Newfoundland's ATV and UTV registrations don't expire annually, there are still a few instances where you'll need to notify Motor Registration. The most important one is if you change your residential address. It's a legal requirement to notify the Registrar of an address change within 10 days of moving. This ensures all official correspondence, including any legal notices or recalls related to your machine, reaches you promptly. [Newfoundland Notification Within 10 Days] is crucial for maintaining compliance.

Similarly, if you sell your machine, you have a responsibility to inform Motor Registration that the machine has been transferred out of your name. This prevents any liability from falling back on you if the new owner fails to register it properly. While the new owner is responsible for their own registration, your notification helps keep the system accurate. Staying proactive about these updates ensures your records are always correct and you avoid any unnecessary hassles down the road.

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.