Is pepper spray legal in France?

Safety is a major concern for many French people. That's why many of them resort to carrying a gun or pepper spray to defend themselves. Even with the presence of law enforcement security, some still opt to carry weapons to protect themselves.

Is it possible to carry or use pepper spray in France? In our article, we'll answer this question. But first, let's take a look at what pepper spray is. If you can use pepper spray in France, what are the different categories of weapon authorized by French law? And what does the law say about the use of pepper spray?

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(Image of a pepper bomb)

What is a Pepper Bomb?

A pepper bomb also known as a tear gas canister is a defensive weapon, a anti-aggression weapon used to protect against aggression. Generally speaking, defensive weapons are classified into different categories, and the tear-gas can is classified into category D for a can with a capacity of 100 ml; and category B for a can with a capacity of over 100 ml.

Can we use a pepper spray in France?

Pepper spray, also known as tear gas canisters, are only authorized for sale, carrying, transport and storage. for legitimate reasons. In fact, this is a category D weapon which is prohibited for transport except for legitimate reasons.

If, during security checks, you are seen wearing this device without authorization, you will be punished by law. You'll need to be able to provide a legitimate reason to justify carrying tear gas canisters. Furthermore, the use and possession of the latter are prohibited in France. However, this restriction is not absolute:

  • For a less than 100 mlB, i.e. classified in category B, this one is authorized by law.
  • However, in the case of category B tear gas canisters, i.e. 100 ml to 500 ml, they are for professionals only.

The acquisition or possession of this type of category B weapons requires proof of identity and must be declared in order to be authorized.

What does French law say about the possession of pepper spray?

Under French law, for all category B weapons, they are subject to a declaration and have supporting documents to be authorized. Category D weapons can be purchased by anyone over 18. However, possession of a category D weapon is subject to the following conditions unrestrictedbut its transport or carrying is prohibited except for legitimate reasons.

To check whether your reason is valid or not, the judge will take the following into account taking location into account, of context and the circumstances that prompted you to carry it. The claim that the weapon will be used to better defend yourself in the event of an altercation will not be legitimate. Failure to comply with these restrictions may result in a fine ranging from 750 € à 30 000 € accompanied by a imprisonment.

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