Current Pepper Spray Laws And Restrictions

By Author: Chris Gill
Total Articles: 66
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Before purchasing self defense sprays, consumers should be aware of pepper spray laws and restrictions. Though the spray is considered legal in all 50 states, certain states and cities impose restrictions regarding strength, size, or other factors. Individuals who think mace or other defense sprays are restricted in their area should consult with their city or state district attorney office. A person younger than 18 should not purchase any type of defense spray.


New York and Massachusetts are two states that have pepper spray laws and restrictions. For this reason, some suppliers will not ship to these states. Consumers who place orders on their sites will have their orders cancelled and any payment will be refunded. Residents of New York may only purchase self defense sprays from pharmacists or firearms dealers licensed in New York. Massachusetts residents may only buy these sprays from Massachusetts-licensed firearms dealers.


Several other states also have pepper spray laws and restrictions regarding the type of spray or ingredients used. In Michigan, an OC pepper spray must ...
... have a concentration of two percent or less. The only permissible tear gas is CS and no more than 35 grams may be included per can. Combination sprays are not permitted. Mace has a brand of OC pepper and UV Dye spray approved for use in Michigan. A pocket model of this product contains five one-second bursts and sprays six to 12 feet.


According to Wisconsin pepper spray laws and restrictions, tear gas may not be used. OC products with a maximum 10 percent concentration and 15 to 60 gram weight of capsicum, oleoresin, and inert ingredients are permitted. This equates to a ½ ounce and two ounce spray, respectively. Self defense sprays must not be camouflaged and must have a safety mechanism that prevents accidental discharge.


Spray range is restricted to between six and 20 feet in Wisconsin. The state also specifies packaging and labeling requirements including a statement that no one under age 18 is permitted to purchase the product. The manufacturer phone number must be provided on the product label and packages must be sealed and have a tamper-proof feature. These additional safety and security measures are necessary to prevent accidental or intentional misuse.


Pepper spray is considered by some as the best self defense for women to use. It does not require wielding a weapon and compact units are lightweight and easy to carry on a keychain or purse. Many females feel much more comfortable operating self defense sprays than they do tasers. They may even keep an extra supply in their car and at home, to protect themselves in these environments.

Reviewing pepper spray laws and restrictions and checking on a state or local level if unsure is recommended. This will prevent a potentially illegal purchase from being made unknowingly. If pepper spray is not an option, another type of self defense product should be selected in order to provide protection. Individuals who do not know how to use self defense weapons should read the product instructions or take a class on safe operation.

Self Defense ATL (http://www.selfdefenseatl.com) is the Atlanta region’s provider of self defense products for the average person. Visitors can buy pepper spray, buy stun guns and buy Taser guns online or through a print catalog.