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. Possessing one without authority is punishable by up to 10 years' imprisonment, and evading the import ban is a customs offence carrying up to 14 years (Customs and Excise Management Act 1979, s.170). 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.

Leaving with this item

Pepper spray is a prohibited weapon for civilians in United Kingdom, so there is no lawful personal possession or export.

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