5 Best Personal Safety Alarms (2024), Tested and Reviewed
Pepper spray is legal in all 50 states, but be sure to read your specific state’s fine print before you purchase. Most states only allow adults 18 and older to buy and carry, but additional restrictions may apply. Wisconsin and California, for example, regulate both the size of the canister and the concentration of oleoresin capsicum (OC) it can contain. In Massachusetts and New York, you can purchase pepper spray only from a licensed in-state pharmacist, so online shopping is off the table.
It’s also important to note that pepper spray (and gel) is classified as a weapon in some jurisdictions, meaning anyone with prior convictions is prohibited from carrying it altogether. Pepper spray is also often banned in certain spaces, including but not limited to government buildings, schools, and commercial flights. Ignoring local laws could lead to fines and/or criminal charges, so double-check the rules in your place of residence before you swipe that credit card.