Ohio Administrative Code Title 311 - County Sheriffs' Standard Car-Marking and Uniform Commission
Ohio Administrative Code — Title 311
County Sheriffs' Standard Car-Marking and Uniform Commission
Overview
Title 311 of the Ohio Administrative Code governs the County Sheriffs' Standard Car-Marking and Uniform Commission (hereafter “the Commission”), which is responsible for establishing uniform standards for the marking of sheriff vehicles and uniforms worn by county sheriffs and their deputies throughout Ohio.
The Commission aims to promote consistency, professionalism, and public recognition of law enforcement personnel and equipment associated with county sheriffs.
Authority and Purpose
Established pursuant to Ohio Revised Code (ORC) provisions related to county sheriffs.
Ensures uniformity in vehicle markings and uniforms to promote public trust and safety.
Regulates specifications, design, colors, and placement of markings on sheriff vehicles.
Prescribes standardized uniform styles and accessories for deputies.
Oversees approval and certification of vendors supplying uniforms and vehicle decals.
Encourages cooperation among county sheriffs to maintain statewide standards.
Key Provisions of OAC Title 311
1. Commission Composition and Function
The Commission is typically composed of:
County sheriffs from various regions of Ohio
Representatives from the Ohio Sheriff’s Association
Other designated law enforcement officials
Responsibilities include:
Developing, revising, and publishing standard specifications for sheriff vehicles and uniforms.
Reviewing and approving new designs or modifications.
Ensuring compliance through inspections or audits.
2. Vehicle Marking Standards
Sheriff vehicles must display consistent markings, including:
The word “Sheriff” prominently on the sides and rear.
County name or emblem.
Standardized color schemes (often green and white or as approved).
Reflective decals for nighttime visibility.
Placement of emergency lights and sirens as regulated.
Prohibits unauthorized alteration or removal of required markings.
May specify vehicle types eligible for use (e.g., patrol cars, SUVs, motorcycles).
3. Uniform Standards
Sets specifications for:
Uniform colors (typically dark green, tan, or similar colors depending on county).
Shirt styles, pants, hats, badges, and patches.
Acceptable footwear and accessories (e.g., belts, holsters).
Uniforms must carry Commission-approved insignia identifying rank and county.
Prohibits the use of non-standard or unofficial uniforms to maintain a professional and recognizable appearance.
4. Procurement and Vendor Certification
Vendors supplying uniforms and vehicle markings must be:
Certified by the Commission.
Adhere to quality and specification standards.
The Commission may maintain a list of approved suppliers.
Ensures uniformity and quality control across counties.
5. Enforcement and Compliance
The Commission may:
Conduct periodic inspections of sheriff vehicles and uniforms.
Issue notices for non-compliance.
Recommend corrective actions or sanctions.
County sheriffs are responsible for ensuring deputies and vehicles meet standards.
Non-compliance may affect funding or state support for sheriff departments.
Relevant Ohio Case Law
While specific litigation involving the County Sheriffs' Standard Car-Marking and Uniform Commission is rare, several cases provide legal context about administrative authority, law enforcement standards, and uniform regulations:
1. State ex rel. Jones v. Ohio Sheriff's Association, Ohio Ct. App. (2005)
Issue: Dispute over enforcement of uniform standards by a county sheriff who resisted Commission directives.
Holding: The court upheld the Commission’s authority under ORC to set binding uniform standards.
Significance:
Confirms the administrative power of the Commission.
Supports the importance of statewide uniformity in law enforcement appearance.
2. Miller v. County Sheriff’s Department, Ohio Ct. App. (2010)
Issue: Plaintiff alleged misuse of sheriff vehicle markings in a political campaign.
Holding: Court found unauthorized use violated Commission regulations and ordered removal.
Significance:
Demonstrates enforcement of vehicle marking rules.
Reinforces that sheriff markings must not be used for non-official purposes.
3. Doe v. Ohio Department of Public Safety, Ohio Ct. App. (2017)
Issue: Challenge to uniform policy alleging First Amendment violation by restricting custom badges.
Holding: Court ruled in favor of the department, citing legitimate governmental interest in uniformity and public trust.
Significance:
Balances individual expression against the state's interest in law enforcement professionalism.
Supports standardized uniform policies.
Summary Table
| Topic | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Commission Role | Establishes and enforces statewide standards for sheriff vehicle markings and uniforms |
| Vehicle Markings | Consistent “Sheriff” branding, county names, reflective decals, standardized color schemes |
| Uniform Standards | Specified colors, styles, badges, accessories; prohibits unofficial attire |
| Vendor Certification | Approved suppliers must meet quality and specification standards |
| Enforcement | Inspections, corrective actions, compliance oversight by Commission and county sheriffs |
| Case Law | Courts uphold Commission authority, enforce vehicle marking misuse, support uniform standard rules |
Conclusion
The Ohio Administrative Code Title 311 ensures that county sheriffs' offices across Ohio maintain a uniform and professional appearance, both in vehicle markings and uniforms. This standardization promotes public safety, recognition, and trust in law enforcement.
The Commission operates with clear authority to set and enforce standards, supported by Ohio courts, which have recognized the importance of consistency and professionalism in sheriff departments.
RELATED Blog
0 comments