Yes, pepper spray is legal in Colombia, but its possession and use are strictly regulated under national and local ordinances. Civilian ownership is permitted for self-defense, yet compliance with firearm-equivalent storage and carrying protocols is mandatory. The Policía Nacional de Colombia enforces these rules, with recent 2026 amendments tightening oversight on non-lethal defense tools.
Key Regulations for Pepper Spray in Colombia
- Authorization Requirement: Civilian possession mandates prior approval from the Policía Nacional, aligning with protocols for other self-defense devices. Unauthorized acquisition risks confiscation under Decreto 2535 de 2000.
- Concentration Limits: Sprays must contain no more than 5% oleoresin capsicum (OC) or equivalent irritants. Products exceeding this threshold are classified as chemical weapons, prohibited under Ley 1902 de 2018.
- Carrying Restrictions: Open carry is prohibited in urban centers, including Bogotá and Medellín. Concealed carry requires a permiso de tenencia and compliance with municipal ordinances, such as Acuerdo 809 de 2021 in Bogotá.