Pepper Spray State Laws Explained 2024

Pepper spray is legal for self-defense in all 50 states, but buying it can be a challenge due to restrictions similar to those on weapons like knives and guns. Most states allow individuals over 18 to carry a small amount for personal protection, following laws on the use of necessary force. Restrictions mainly cover where it can be purchased and how much can be carried. Ordering online has become popular, but federal regulations prohibit pepper spray on flights. Watch Your VI provides a comprehensive guide on online ordering restrictions for oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray to help avoid issues.

It is illegal to ship to Massachusetts and New York.

In Massachusetts, Pepper spray for human attackers can only be purchased locally from a licensed firearms dealer, and buyers must have a firearms identification card.

In New York borders, one can buy it from a licensed firearms dealer or a pharmacy ONLY

WE DO NOT SHIP PEPPER SPRAY TO:

MASSACHUSETTS

NEW YORK

ALASKA

HAWALL

US VIRGIN ISLANDS OR INTERNATIONALLY

For the states that have self defense spray regulations pertaining to laws regarding canister size and content. These regulations also apply to online orders within those state. Here are some of the current state restrictions on self-defense spray:

  • Arkansas: Canisters cannot exceed 5 ounces.
  • California: Canisters cannot exceed 2.5 ounces.
  • Florida: Canisters cannot exceed 2 ounces.
  • Hawaii: Canisters cannot exceed ½-ounce.
  • Michigan: Canisters cannot exceed 1.2 ounces. They also cannot have a strength higher than 18% OC or 1.4% major capsaicinoids (MC).
  • New Jersey: Canisters cannot exceed ¾-ounce.
  • North Carolina: Human-formula canisters cannot exced 5 ounces. (No restrictions on animal sprays.
  • Wisconsin: Canisters must have a safety feature and cannot exceed 2 ounces or have an OC concentration higher than 10%. Sprays must be pepper-only with no tear gas or UV dyes. The pepper spray also cannot be disguised as a common item such as a lipstick and pen.

Some states also have laws regarding who can carry pepper spray and thus order it. In several states, for example, convicted felons cannot possess pepper spray. Others require a concealed weapon license. Some cities and municipalities may also have their own regulations, and state laws can change from time to time.

Whenever you’re in doubt, contact your local law enforcement agency to verify the pepper spray shipping and possession laws in the area.

It is important for individuals to stay informed about the legal regulations surrounding Pepper Spray in order to responsibly own and use them for self-defense.