Pepper Spray Laws: State-by-State Guide & International Regulations

Pepper spray (also known as OC spray or mace) is one of the most popular personal defense weapons, valued for its ability to incapacitate an attacker with minimal lasting injury. It uses capsaicin (the spicy chemical in chili peppers) to irritate mucous membranes, causing extreme pain, eye closure, coughing, and difficulty breathing, which subdues assailants long enough for the user to escape.

However, the legality of pepper spray varies by location. In the United States, pepper spray is legal for civilian self-defense in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., but many states impose specific restrictions on its possession, size, or formulation. Internationally, pepper spray laws range from outright bans in some countries to permissive use in others.

This guide provides a state-by-state breakdown of U.S. pepper spray laws – including who can carry it, size limits, permit requirements, and other restrictions – as well as an overview of regulations in major countries like Canada, the UK, Australia, Germany, and more.

General U.S. Regulations

• Age Restrictions: Most states require buyers to be at least 18 years old. Some allow limited use by minors with parental permission.
• Criminal Background: Many states prohibit possession by convicted felons or those with violent misdemeanor records.
• Self-Defense Only: Pepper spray must only be used for legitimate self-defense purposes. Misuse is a criminal offense.
• Restricted Locations: Banned in certain areas such as federal buildings, courthouses, and secure airport zones.
• Purchase Restrictions: Some states require in-person purchases from licensed dealers; certain states prohibit online sales.
• Labeling and Formula: Some states regulate concentration and prohibit additives like tear gas.
• Size Limits: Common restrictions range from 0.75 oz to 2.5 oz for civilian use.
• Permit Requirements: Rare – only D.C. requires a registration form at purchase.

Pepper Spray Laws by State

International Pepper Spray Laws

• Canada: Illegal for use against humans; bear and dog sprays allowed for animal defense only.
• United Kingdom: Completely illegal; classified as a firearm.
• Australia: Mostly banned; only Western Australia allows with reasonable excuse.
• Germany: Legal if labeled for animal defense; can be used in self-defense.
• France: Legal for adults; max 100 ml canister.
• Italy: Legal over 16; strict size, concentration, and safety restrictions.
• Spain: Legal with license; max 5% OC concentration.
• Russia: Legal for 18+, including some tear gas blends.
• India: Legal for self-defense; available from approved vendors.
• Israel: Legal without license.
• Japan: Legal to own; use only in justified self-defense.
• Singapore: Illegal.
• Brazil: Restricted to police and licensed security.
• New Zealand: Requires police permit.

Pepper Spray Safety Tips

1. Keep it accessible at all times.
2. Practice using your spray so you can act quickly.
3. Aim for the face, especially eyes and nose.
4. Watch wind direction to avoid blowback.
5. Use from a safe distance – 6–12 feet for most sprays.
6. Store safely, away from children.
7. Avoid extreme heat or cold.
8. Replace every 2–4 years or by the expiration date.
9. Know and follow local laws.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Laws change frequently, and enforcement can vary. Always verify current regulations in your location before buying, carrying, or using pepper spray.