Pepper Spray

Last revised September 22, 2026

Also known as OC spray, OC gas, capsicum spray, or oleoresin capsicum.

Pepper Spray is a chemical compound that irritates the eyes to cause tears, pain, and even temporary blindness, used in riot control, crowd control, and personal self-defense, including defense against dogs and bears.

Prohibited Weapons Regulations

"Any liquid, spray, powder or other substance that is capable of injuring, immobilizing or otherwise incapacitating any person" was declared to be a prohibited weapon under  Prohibited Weapons Order, No. 1, Consolidated Regulations of Canada 1978,  chapter 433.

Prohibited Weapons Order, No. 1 was repealed by regulation # SOR/98-463 and replaced by regulation SOR/98-462 (Schedule, Part 3).  The text remained the same.  Proposed amendments regarding pepper spray that were not included are discussed in Part 3 of the Regulatory Impact Analysis Statement as published in the Canada Gazette Part II, (1998) vol.132, no.20, p. 2716 

Content reviewed September 15, 2026