Legal & Compliance Information
Legal & State Compliance Information
At NonLethalDefense.com, we are committed to helping our customers stay compliant with local, state, and federal laws when purchasing less-lethal self-defense products. While our products are legal in many areas, it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with your jurisdiction’s regulations.
This guide is for general reference only and is subject to change. Laws vary by state and locality. Please verify your state and local regulations before purchasing or carrying any non-lethal self-defense tools.
Some products—such as TASER® devices, stun guns, and pepper sprays—have unique legal restrictions that differ by state, city, or even by device type. For example, pepper spray size limits apply in certain states, and electronic defense weapons may require a license or be prohibited entirely. Always check the regulations specific to each product before purchasing.
State-by-State Restrictions
Laws governing less-lethal products such as pepper ball launchers, stun guns, and defense sprays can vary significantly between states—and sometimes even between cities or counties within the same state.
To support responsible ownership, we encourage you to review our state-by-state breakdown below. This information is provided as a general guide and is not a substitute for your own legal due diligence.
⚠️ Possession or shipment of restricted products to certain states, counties, or cities may be prohibited. NonLethalDefense.com reserves the right to cancel or modify orders that violate applicable laws.
Non-Lethal vs. Firearms: Legal Requirements
| Requirement | Non-Lethal Products | Firearms |
|---|---|---|
| Background Check | Not Required | Required |
| Permit/LTC | Usually Not Required | Often Required |
| Age Requirement | 18+ (varies by state) | 21+ (most states) |
| Shipping Restrictions | Some States/Localities | Strict Federal & State |
| Registration | Not Required | Required in Some Areas |
Restrictions Overview (Select Highlights)
- California – Pepper spray is legal with size restrictions. Byrna launchers are legal without a firearm license.
- New York – Stun guns and pepper ball devices are not permitted for civilian use.
- Massachusetts – Civilian possession of stun guns is legal with a license to carry.
- Illinois – Products like the Byrna must be purchased by those 18+ with a FOID card in some municipalities.
- Washington, D.C. – Most less-lethal weapons are restricted or banned.
View full details for each state in the sections below.
Responsibility Reminder
Customers are solely responsible for understanding and complying with all laws and regulations applicable to their location. By purchasing from NonLethalDefense.com, you affirm that you are legally allowed to own and use the items you order.
We do not ship to jurisdictions where products are restricted or prohibited. Attempted purchases in these areas may be canceled and refunded.
Last updated: May 3, 2025 – Laws are subject to change.