Did you know that more than 30 000 vehicles in New England sport neon under‑body lighting, yet many drivers remain unsure whether Vermont permits it? The short answer is yes—underglow lighting is legal in Vermont in 2026, but it must obey specific color, placement and equipment rules to avoid a citation.
Legal Status in 2026
Vermont’s vehicle lighting statutes (Vt. Stat. tit. 23, § 3221) prohibit “any lighting device that is not an approved head‑ or tail light” unless the device meets the exemptions listed for decorative illumination. The 2022 amendment expressly allowed non‑essential under‑body lights for private passenger vehicles, provided they do not mimic police or emergency signals. Therefore, as of 2026, undeglow is permissible when the separate statutes on “decorative lighting” are satisfied.
Permitted Colors and Placement
The law limits colors to white, amber, or any hue that is not red, blue, or flashing. Neon green, purple, and orange are acceptable if the fixture is mounted behind the vehicle’s frame and is not visible from the front windshield. Lights must be concealed from the driver’s direct line of sight and must not project onto the roadway beyond the vehicle’s perimeter.
Equipment Requirements and Enforcement
Underglow fixtures must be permanently wired, have a breaker rated for automotive use, and be equipped with a manual on/off switch within the driver’s reach. The lights cannot be automatically activated by speed or vibration. Police may issue a violation under Vt. Stat. tit. 23, §§ 3221‑3225; penalties range from a $100 fine to a possible registration hold for repeat offenders.
How to Stay Compliant
- Choose only allowed colors and avoid flashing patterns.
- Install the lights behind the chassis, out of the driver’s sight line.
- Use a dedicated, manually operated switch and a proper automotive fuse.
- Keep a copy of the installation manual in the vehicle in case of an inspection.
- If you modify the lighting system, have it inspected at a licensed VT motor‑vehicle shop within 30 days.
Can I use red underglow on a passenger car?
No. Red is reserved for brake and rear‑stop signals. Using red underglow violates Vt. Stat. tit. 23, § 3221 and can result in a citation.
Is underglow allowed on motorcycles?
Motorcycles are covered by the same decorative‑lighting exemption, but the lights must be mounted rearward of the fuel tank and cannot be visible from the rider’s forward view. Color restrictions remain the same.
Do I need a special inspection for underglow lights?
An additional inspection is not required, but the lights must pass the standard safety inspection. If the underglow system is not properly wired or uses prohibited colors, the inspector will note a deficiency.
Can underglow be used while driving at night?
Yes, provided the lights are non‑flashing and do not exceed 500 lumens per fixture. Excessive brightness that dazzles other drivers is considered a nuisance violation.
What happens if a police officer issues a citation for underglow?
The driver receives a ticket with a $100 fine. Failure to pay within 30 days can lead to a registration hold. First‑time offenders may be offered a corrective‑action course to avoid further penalties.