Is Pepper Spray Legal in Illinois, Ohio and Other Midwest States?

Pepper spray and pepper gel are two of the most widely used personal safety devices available in the United States. They are compact, effective and legal in most areas. Both products include the active ingredient Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), a compound derived from hot peppers. When deployed, they cause a burning sensation that disorients a threat and gives the user time to escape.

While both are generally available, laws for purchase and use vary by state and even at the city level, making it critical for buyers and users to know how to lawfully carry and use them.

This guide specifically covers pepper spray and pepper gel laws across six Midwest states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin.

General Legal Considerations

Before getting into state-specific rules, a few principles apply broadly:

Pepper spray and pepper gel are legal for civilian use in all 50 states, but each state sets its own conditions. Common variables include minimum age of purchase, restrictions on canister size, limits on OC concentration, and prohibitions on carrying in specific locations. Felony convictions often disqualify a person from lawful possession.

In nearly all states, pepper spray may be carried for self-defense purposes but should not be used except when there is clearly a threat. It is not an intimidation tool and deploying pepper spray or gel unprovoked or in a crowded space may result in fines or other consequences. 

Location restrictions are nearly universal. For instance, many schools, courthouses, government buildings, correctional facilities, and other secure public venues prohibit carrying pepper spray even where possession is otherwise legal.

Finally, one federal rule applies everywhere: The Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) prohibits pepper spray in carry-on luggage. A single canister up to four fluid ounces with a safety mechanism is permitted in checked baggage only, though individual airlines may have further restrictions. 

Pepper Spray Laws by Midwest State

Is pepper spray legal in Illinois?

Yes, pepper spray is legal to purchase, carry and deploy in the state of Illinois for adults over the age of 18. There is no background check or specific permit required. Specifically in Chicago; however, anyone who discharges pepper spray or gel in an enclosed room of any restaurant, bar or tavern with an occupancy greater than 20 is subject to a possible fine and up to 30 days imprisonment. 

Is pepper spray legal in Indiana?

Yes, pepper spray and pepper gel are legal in Indiana for adults over the age of 18 without a felony conviction. There are no restrictions on size or concentration, though as with most other states, misuse may result in criminal charges.

Is pepper spray legal in Iowa?

Yes, it is legal to purchase, carry and deploy pepper spray in Iowa for adults over the age of 18 without a felony conviction. There are no permits or background checks required and the state does not restrict canister size or OC concentration for civilian use.

Is pepper spray legal in Michigan?

Pepper spray is legal in Michigan for users who are at least 18 years of age without a felony conviction. However, Michigan law only allows pepper spray or pepper gel canisters up to 35 grams, or approximately 1.2 ounces. It is prohibited to ship, use or deploy larger sizes in the state.

Is pepper spray legal in Ohio?

Yes, paper spray is legal in the state of Ohio. There are no major restrictions on civilian pepper spray possession, as adults may purchase, carry and use OC-based sprays without a permit. There are also no state-level size or concentration caps.

Is pepper spray legal in Wisconsin?

Pepper spray is legal in Wisconsin within specific parameters. The canister must contain only oleoresin capsicum and inert ingredients. Other ingredients, such as UV dye, tear gas (CS) and combination formulas, are not permitted. The OC concentration must not exceed 10%, and the canister weight must fall between 0.5 and 2.1 ounces, and the device must have proper labeling. Further, all pepper spray and pepper gel devices need to include a mechanism to prevent accidental discharge and it cannot be camouflaged to look like another device.

What To Know Before Buying, Shipping and Traveling with Pepper Spray

Shipping is permitted to most Midwest states from reputable retailers, including manufacturer sites like SABRE. Reliable sellers will verify items shipped comply with size and formula requirements and they will not ship items that go against the laws of the shipping location.

When traveling by car across state lines, the laws of any state being passed through apply. A product legal in Ohio might not meet Wisconsin’s formula requirements or Michigan’s canister size limitations. Consider carrying only products that comply with the most restrictive jurisdiction along the route.

Laws also differ significantly outside the Midwest. What's legal in Iowa may be restricted or prohibited in another destination state or country. Before carrying to another state – whether traveling by plane, train or car – review that state's specific regulations. 

Pepper spray and pepper gel are among the most effective and accessible self-defense tools available. Understanding the law in the state you’re in is the first step toward carrying with confidence.

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Disclaimer: The possession and/or sale of SABRE defense sprays and SABRE Red defense sprays are legal in most cities and/or states in the United States. However, some cities and/or states have chosen to establish certain restrictions surrounding the possession and/or sale of these products. To the best of SABRE’s knowledge, listed are the most current legal restrictions for cities and/or states. You may wish to contact your local police department or the state police regarding the restrictions in your area and/or state.

Check your local laws to determine the legality of carrying SABRE and SABRE Red products in your area. SABRERED.com consumers are responsible for understanding the local and state laws concerning the purchase and use of Security Equipment Corporation's products. The consumer agrees that Security Equipment Corporation's products are not intended for illegal use. Security Equipment Corporation is not responsible for misrepresentation by the consumer nor the illegal use of our products.