Pepper Ball, Pepper Spray & Pepper Gel Laws By State


 

Are you ready to buy? Check out our recommendations and follow links directly to Amazon. Safety Boutique



 

If you just landed on this page - first off, we’re happy you’re here! But more importantly, stick around and learn about all the amazing ways you can step into self-defense mode and protect both yourself and your loved ones. Pepper Spray is a great option. But if you want to get more aggressive, check out the Byrna Gun. We have videos and informative information on them. Click Here!


The delivery method of pepper spray, some know as mace, has come a long way, and with the violence finding its way across the country, there’s been no better time than now to be prepared.

All forms of legal pepper spray are considered to be a less lethal form of self-protection.

Having an Active Self Protection Plan and doing your homework, inspecting and researching all forms of self-defense and all options of less-lethal weapons is key as we move through the 21st century.


🟩 Pepper Spray Laws by State – Updated for 2025

Not sure if pepper spray is legal in your state? Use this guide to check your local laws before purchasing or carrying pepper spray. We’ve simplified the regulations so you can stay safe and legal, wherever you live.

Alabama

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Alaska

  • Legal with restrictions.

  • Must be 18+ to buy.

  • Not allowed in schools without permission.

Arizona

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

  • Cannot use against verbal threats or law enforcement.

Arkansas

  • Legal with size limit.

  • Container must not exceed 150 cubic centimeters.

California

  • Legal with restrictions.

  • Container must be 2.5 oz or less.

  • Must be 18+ and not addicted to narcotics.

Colorado

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Connecticut

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Delaware

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

  • Must be 18+.

District of Columbia (D.C.)

  • Legal with registration.

  • Must register at a local police station.

  • Ages 14–17 need parental consent.

Florida

  • Legal with restrictions.

  • Container must be 2 oz or less.

  • Felons prohibited.

Georgia

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Hawaii

  • Legal with restrictions.

  • Must be 18+ to possess.

  • Mailed containers must be under 0.5 oz.

Idaho

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Illinois

  • Legal with restrictions.

  • Must be 18+ to possess.

  • Not allowed in enclosed spaces with 20+ people (Chicago).

Indiana

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Iowa

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Kansas

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Kentucky

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Louisiana

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Maine

  • Legal with self-defense rule.

  • Must be used only in self-defense.

  • Criminal misuse is illegal.

Maryland

  • Legal with restrictions.

  • Considered a dangerous weapon but allowed in self-defense.

  • Minors prohibited from use between sunset and sunrise.

Massachusetts

  • Legal with restrictions.

  • Human pepper spray cannot be shipped — animal formula is okay.

  • Felons and mentally ill individuals prohibited.

  • Firearms ID required for ages 15–18.

Michigan

  • Legal with content limits.

  • No more than 35g of CS gas + inert ingredients.

  • No more than 18% OC.

  • Must not contain UV dye.

  • Minors cannot purchase.

Minnesota

  • Legal with age and restriction rules.

  • Must be 16+ to possess.

  • Those banned from owning pistols cannot possess.

Mississippi

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Missouri

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Montana

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Nebraska

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.

Nevada

  • Legal with size limits.

  • No more than 2 oz if it contains CS tear gas.

  • Minors not allowed to possess.

New Hampshire

  • No restrictions.

  • Legal to buy, carry, use, and ship.


Check Out Our Suggestions To Stuff Your Gun Range Kit.

Pepper Ball Gun - Add One To Your Self Defense Kit


Top 6 FAQs for the Pepper Ball Gun Laws Page

1. Is pepper spray legal in all 50 states?
Pepper spray is legal in most U.S. states, but each state has its own laws regarding size limits, usage, and possession. Our state-by-state guide details the specific pepper spray laws across the country.

2. What restrictions are there for carrying pepper spray in California?
In California, pepper spray containers must not exceed 2.5 ounces, and it cannot be sold or possessed by minors or individuals with felony convictions.

3. Can I legally carry pepper spray in New York?
Yes, but New York restricts pepper spray purchases to state-approved retailers, and only pocket-sized containers are legal. Human formula sprays cannot be shipped into the state.

4. What’s the difference between pepper spray, mace, and pepper ball guns?
Pepper spray and mace are often used interchangeably but refer to different chemical compositions. Pepper ball guns shoot projectiles that release pepper irritants on impact, offering a long-distance self-defense option.

5. Can convicted felons carry pepper spray?
In many states, including New York and Massachusetts, convicted felons are prohibited from carrying pepper spray. Always check local regulations to ensure compliance.

6. Are there any pepper spray container size limits?
Yes, many states, such as Michigan and California, regulate the container size of pepper spray for legal use. Size limits vary by state.


Our Most Recent Blog Post