Pepper spray is a capsaicin spray used as self defence.
Many people around the world use it to deter attacks from bears and other wildlife or attacks from people. Some law enforcement agencies use it for riot control.
Can you carry pepper spray in Alberta?
Pepper Spray is listed as a Prohibited Weapon in the Canadian criminal code.
You can not legally carry pepper spray in Alberta. In fact, it is illegal in all of Canada.
If you use pepper spray, even in self defence, you may be charged criminally.
Source – Use this link to the relevant section of the criminal code. Scroll a long way down to find where it says the following:
It mentions tear gas, mace, or other gas. Also any liquid, spray, powder, that is capable of injuring etc. It does not mention pepper spray specifically, but it would fall into this definition.
In Summary
- Pepper spray is not legal to carry and use in Canada. It is listed as a prohibited weapon in the Canadian criminal code.
- The Alberta government has been trying to convince the Federal government to allow it for self defence.
- Tear gas, mace, and other gases are also prohibited weapons in Canada.
