Pepper Spray Laws
Is Pepper Spray Legal In WASHINGTON?
Pepper spray in WA is Legal with Restrictions.
Legal with Restrictions Washington law expressly authorizes the sale, possession, and use of "personal protection spray devices" for self-defense. RCW 9.91.160 defines a personal protection spray device as a commercially available self-defense spray device, such as mace, pepper mace, or pepper gas, containing a nonlethal sternutator or lacrimator agent, and states that no city, town, or county may prohibit an adult from purchasing, possessing, transporting, or using one for self-defense. Age minimum: It is unlawful for a person under 18 to purchase or possess a personal protection spray device, unless the person is at least 14 years old and has the permission of a parent or guardian. Size/concentration limit: RCW 9.91.160 does not specify a maximum size, quantity, or OC/tear-gas concentration limit. Carry restrictions: RCW 9.91.160 does not itself impose location-based carry restrictions; the statute notes only that it does not authorize a device otherwise prohibited by other state law. Source: RCW 9.91.160, Washington State Legislature, https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=9.91.160 This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change. Confirm current requirements with Washington authorities or your own counsel before purchasing or carrying.