No, Butterfly knives (balisongs) are prohibited in France under the Décret n°2013-700 du 30 juillet 2013 and Code de la sécurité intérieure, which classify them as armes de catégorie D (restricted weapons). Possession without authorization is illegal, with penalties including fines up to €750 and confiscation.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in France
- Prohibition Status: Balisongs are explicitly listed as prohibited weapons under Article R311-2 of the Code de la sécurité intérieure, alongside flick knives and switchblades. Their sale, import, or possession is banned unless exempted.
- Authorization Exceptions: Only individuals with a permis de port d’arme (carrying permit) or specific professional justification (e.g., collectors with autorisation préfectorale) may possess them legally. Applications require proof of legitimate use.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The Ministère de l’Intérieur is tightening enforcement via Préfecture-level audits, targeting online marketplaces and private collections. Non-compliant possession may trigger Article 222-42 of the Code pénal, escalating penalties to 3 years imprisonment.