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Is pepper spray legal in Denmark?

A permit is rare and only for people who need protection.

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Short answer

No, pepper spray is not legal for ordinary people in Denmark. It is forbidden without a police permit to buy, own, carry or use spray cans for self-defence, including tear gas sprays and cartridges. The police can give a pepper spray permit only to people with a special need for protection, and the spray may then be no stronger than 500,000 Scoville heat units. A spray that is legal to buy in your home country is still covered by the Danish rules.

Practical info

Why

  1. All self-defence sprays are covered, including tear gas.
  2. Ordinary tourists cannot get a permit.
  3. Permitted sprays have a strength limit of 500,000 Scoville units.

Details

Swedish customs staff working at the Øresund link have a special exemption to carry pepper spray on duty.

Tip

Leave pepper spray at home when you travel to Denmark, also if you only pass through by car or ferry.

What may differ

Weapon rules are set by executive order and can be changed, so check the current text before you travel.

Common misconception

Pepper spray is fine in Denmark because it is legal in Germany or Sweden.

What actually happens

Danish rules apply on Danish soil: self-defence sprays need a Danish police permit.

People also ask

  • Are tasers legal in Denmark?
  • Which knives are illegal in Denmark?
  • Can you carry anything for self-defence in Denmark?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Laws, fines and rules can change, so check the Danish authorities before you travel.

Practical info
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