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Pepper Spray Laws in Virginia

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

Short answer: Virginia law does not ban adults from carrying pepper spray for self-defense. The statute that makes it a felony to release tear gas or other noxious gases or chemical mixtures in a home, business or public gathering place (a Class 3 felony if done maliciously and someone is injured, a… Va. Code § 18.2-312

Pepper sprayVirginia law does not ban adults from carrying pepper spray for self-defense. The statute that makes it a felony to release tear gas or other noxious gases or chemical mixtures in a home, business or public gathering place (a Class 3 felony if done maliciously and someone is injured, a Class 6 felony if done unlawfully but not maliciously) expressly does not prevent their use "in the protection of person, life or property."
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-312

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FAQ

Is pepper spray legal in Virginia?
Virginia law does not ban adults from carrying pepper spray for self-defense. The statute that makes it a felony to release tear gas or other noxious gases or chemical mixtures in a home, business or public gathering place (a Class 3 felony if done maliciously and someone is injured, a Class 6 felony if done unlawfully but not maliciously) expressly does not prevent their use "in the protection of person, life or property."

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.