Pepper Spray → United Kingdom

Banned. Pepper spray and CS gas are classified as prohibited firearms.

Details

In the United Kingdom, pepper spray (oleoresin capsicum / OC spray) and CS gas are classified as Section 5 prohibited weapons under the Firearms Act 1968. Possession, importation, manufacture, or sale carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 5 years. There are no civilian exemptions, including for self-defence. This classification applies regardless of canister size or concentration. Bear spray and personal safety sprays sold under euphemistic names are also prohibited. UK Border Force actively screens for these items. The prohibition applies equally to Northern Ireland.

Quantity limit

Zero tolerance

Legal reference

Firearms Act 1968, Section 5(1)(b); Firearms (Amendment) Act 1997

Surrender at customs

UK Border Force accepts voluntary surrender of pepper spray (prohibited under Firearms Act 1968 §5). Declare at Red Channel. Seizure receipt issued. Proactive surrender avoids criminal prosecution.

Practical advice

Do not bring pepper spray to the UK under any circumstances. Postal packages containing pepper spray are regularly intercepted by Royal Mail and Border Force.

Customs authority

His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) · https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs