Pepper Spray → France

Category D2 weapon; declaration required

Details

France classifies pepper spray (concentration above 2%) as a Category D2 weapon. Purchase and possession are legal for self-defense but the spray must be declared. Travelers can bring personal pepper spray but should declare it. Lower-concentration sprays are less restricted. Enforcement in France carries fines from EUR 250 to EUR 5,000 under Code des douanes Art. 411, Art. 412 (typical personal cases are handled as civil infringements).

Quantity limit

Personal use with declaration

Documentation required

• Customs declaration if carrying multiple canisters

Legal reference

Internal Security Code, French Weapons Classification

Leaving with this item

Pepper spray may be carried out of France where domestically lawful, but it is forbidden on aircraft cabins and prohibited at many destinations.

Practical advice

Legal for self-defense. Higher concentrations require declaration. If unsure, declare on arrival — declared goods at worst attract duty or surrender, while undeclared goods found in screening are seized and fined.

Customs authority

Direction générale des douanes et droits indirects (DGDDI — French Customs) · https://www.douane.gouv.fr