Pepper Spray Laws
Is Pepper Spray Legal In OHIO?
Pepper spray in OH is Legal.
Legal Pepper spray (OC / oleoresin capsicum spray) is legal for civilians to purchase, possess, and carry in Ohio. No Ohio statute specifically regulates civilian purchase, possession, or use of pepper spray for self-defense. Ohio's weapons-control statute, Ohio Rev. Code Section 2923.11, defines "deadly weapon," "dangerous ordnance," and related terms used throughout Ohio's weapons offenses (Chapter 2923). Its "dangerous ordnance" definition lists items such as automatic/sawed-off firearms, explosive and incendiary devices, and military ordnance; it does not list tear gas, chemical irritant sprays, or personal-defense OC devices, so pepper spray does not fall within that definition. See https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-2923.11 Age minimum: No Ohio statute-specified minimum age to purchase or possess pepper spray was located. Size/concentration limit: No Ohio statute-specified size or OC concentration limit was located. Carry restrictions: No Ohio pepper-spray-specific carry restriction was located. General restrictions that can apply to any item in restricted zones (e.g., K-12 schools under Ohio Rev. Code Section 2923.122, or airport security screening) may still apply based on the setting. This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change. Confirm current requirements with Ohio authorities or your own counsel before purchasing or carrying.