No, spearguns are prohibited for recreational use in Austria under the Weapons Act (WaffG) and Hunting Act (JagdG), with exceptions for licensed hunters and underwater fishing permits. The Bundesministerium für Inneres enforces these restrictions, and non-compliance risks fines up to €10,000 or criminal charges.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Austria
- Prohibition for civilians: Spearguns are classified as “dangerous weapons” under §17 WaffG, barring possession without a Waffenbesitzkarte (WBK) or Jagdschein (hunting license).
- Hunting exceptions: Licensed hunters may use spearguns exclusively for authorized game retrieval, subject to provincial wildlife laws (Landesjagdgesetze).
- Underwater fishing permits: A Tauchfischereischein (diving fishing license) issued by local authorities (e.g., Amt der Landesregierung) is required for speargun use in designated waters, with seasonal and species restrictions.
Recent 2026 amendments to the WaffG tighten controls on “improvised” spearguns, mandating serial numbers and dealer registration. The Bundesamt für Eich- und Vermessungswesen now inspects imported spearguns for compliance. Violations trigger immediate confiscation and potential criminal liability under §27 WaffG.