Pepper Spray Laws
Is Pepper Spray Legal In NEW HAMPSHIRE?
Pepper spray in NH is Legal.
Legal New Hampshire law does not impose an age minimum, size, or concentration limit on civilian purchase or possession of aerosol self-defense spray (pepper spray/OC). RSA 159:20 defines an "aerosol self-defense spray weapon" as "any aerosol self-defense spray weapon which is designed to immobilize or incapacitate a person temporarily," regulated separately from "electronic defense weapons" (stun guns/tasers) under the same chapter. Age minimum: No statutory age minimum applies to aerosol self-defense spray specifically. (RSA 159:22's sale-to-minors restriction and RSA 159:21's felon-possession prohibition are written to apply to "electronic defense weapons" only, not to aerosol spray.) Size/concentration limit: None specified in New Hampshire statute. Carry restrictions: None specific to aerosol spray found in RSA Chapter 159. Separately, RSA 159:23 makes it a misdemeanor (or Class B felony, depending on the underlying offense) to use an aerosol self-defense spray weapon or electronic defense weapon on a law enforcement officer or another person with intent to commit a crime — this addresses criminal misuse, not lawful possession or carry. Primary source: RSA Chapter 159, Sections 159:20-159:23, New Hampshire General Court, https://gc.nh.gov/rsa/html/XII/159/159-20.htm This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change. Confirm current requirements with New Hampshire authorities or your own counsel before purchasing or carrying.