Yes, Pepper spray is legal in Costa Rica for self-defense, but only under strict conditions enforced by the Dirección General de Armamento del Ministerio de Seguridad Pública (DGAM). Civilian possession requires a permit, and the spray must contain no more than 5% oleoresin capsicum (OC), with a maximum capacity of 50 milliliters. Unregistered or imported sprays exceeding these limits are confiscated at customs, as per Ley de Armas y Explosivos (Law No. 7530) and DGAM’s 2024 technical guidelines. Tourists may carry it temporarily but must declare it upon entry to avoid penalties.
Key Regulations for Pepper Spray in Costa Rica
- Permit Requirement: Civilians must obtain a permiso de tenencia from DGAM, which involves background checks and justification of need. Permits are non-transferable and subject to annual renewal.
- Chemical & Physical Limits: Sprays must contain ≤5% OC, use non-toxic propellants, and have a nozzle preventing continuous discharge. Containers over 50ml or with CS/CR agents are prohibited.
- Import & Export Controls: Bringing pepper spray into Costa Rica without prior DGAM approval risks confiscation. The Dirección General de Aduanas enforces these checks, aligning with 2026 updates to Decreto Ejecutivo No. 42927-MP tightening non-lethal weapon controls.