Is it illegal to sell railroad track?

The High Price of Rail: Why You Can’t Sell That Piece of Track

The romantic image of a lone prospector striking gold is often evoked when imagining the lucrative world of scrap metal. However, some scrap is decidedly off-limits, and attempting to profit from it can lead to serious legal trouble. One such forbidden commodity: railroad tracks.

The simple answer is: no, it is illegal to sell railroad tracks. This isn’t a matter of quirky local ordinances; it’s a serious federal issue with significant ramifications. While seemingly innocuous pieces of rusted metal might appear abandoned or forgotten, they remain the property of railway companies. These companies have significant investments in their infrastructure, and the unauthorized removal of tracks constitutes theft, often considered a felony offense.

The misconception that one can legally procure and sell discarded rail likely stems from the fact that scrap yards frequently deal in recycled metals, including steel. However, these yards operate under strict contracts with railway companies. They are authorized to process rail only after it’s been officially decommissioned and transferred to their possession through legal channels. A private citizen attempting to sell a section of track they’ve removed without permission is essentially attempting to sell stolen property.

The penalties for this crime can be severe. Beyond the obvious legal repercussions, including fines and imprisonment, there are significant safety concerns. Railroad tracks are crucial components of a complex transportation system. Removing or tampering with them poses a serious risk to both railway operations and public safety, potentially causing derailments and other catastrophic accidents. The potential for harm elevates the crime beyond simple theft to a far more serious offense.

Furthermore, the identification and tracking of stolen railway materials are often complicated. Rails often bear identifying marks, but illicit sellers may attempt to obscure these markings, adding further charges to their offense. Authorities take a dim view of individuals who tamper with or attempt to profit from railroad infrastructure, pursuing such cases vigorously.

In conclusion, while the allure of finding a potentially valuable piece of scrap metal might be tempting, railroad tracks are categorically off-limits. Attempting to sell them is not only illegal but also incredibly dangerous. The legal consequences are severe, and the risk to public safety is paramount. Leave the rail to the professionals and stick to legally obtained scrap metal for your entrepreneurial ventures.

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