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Pepper Spray Laws in Maryland

The rules on pepper spray in Maryland: who may own and carry them, where they are banned, and the penalties, from the state code.

Short answer: Maryland's weapons law defines pepper mace (oleoresin capsicum or OC spray) and makes it illegal to wear or carry chemical mace, pepper mace or a tear gas device openly with the intent or purpose of unlawfully injuring someone. Md. Code, Crim. Law §4-101(a)(3), (c)(2), (d)

Pepper sprayMaryland's weapons law defines pepper mace (oleoresin capsicum or OC spray) and makes it illegal to wear or carry chemical mace, pepper mace or a tear gas device openly with the intent or purpose of unlawfully injuring someone. A violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a fine up to $1,000, or both, and the court must impose the maximum prison term if the device was carried with the deliberate purpose of injuring or killing another. The statute does not set a size or strength limit or an age limit for pepper spray.
Source: Md. Code, Crim. Law §4-101(a)(3), (c)(2), (d)

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FAQ

Is pepper spray legal in Maryland?
Maryland's weapons law defines pepper mace (oleoresin capsicum or OC spray) and makes it illegal to wear or carry chemical mace, pepper mace or a tear gas device openly with the intent or purpose of unlawfully injuring someone. A violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a fine up to $1,000, or both, and the court must impose the maximum prison term if the device was carried with the deliberate purpose of injuring or killing another. The statute does not set a size or strength limit or an age limit for pepper spray.

Last verified against official sources: October 27, 2026.

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General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.