No. Batons are classified as controlled weapons under China’s Public Security Administration Punishments Law and Regulations on the Administration of Public Security Equipment, requiring provincial-level approval for possession. The 2026 draft amendments to the Firearms and Ammunition Control Law further tighten restrictions, banning civilian ownership except for licensed security personnel. Unauthorized possession risks confiscation, fines up to ¥5,000, or criminal liability under Article 128 of the Criminal Law.
Key Regulations for Baton in China
- Controlled Weapon Status: Batons fall under the same category as knives, electric batons, and expandable batons under the Public Security Administration Punishments Law (Article 32), requiring public security bureau (PSB) permits for lawful use.
- Provincial Licensing: Issuance of baton permits is delegated to provincial PSB branches, with criteria including security industry certification, background checks, and storage compliance under the Regulations on the Administration of Public Security Equipment (2023 revision).
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The pending Firearms and Ammunition Control Law amendments propose stricter penalties for unauthorized baton possession, aligning with broader crackdowns on “non-standard” self-defense tools in urban areas. Security firms must now register baton inventories with local PSB units quarterly.