Yes, spearguns are legal in Chile but strictly regulated under fisheries and firearms laws. The Subsecretaría de Pesca y Acuicultura (SUBPESCA) and Carabineros de Chile enforce compliance, requiring permits for spearguns classified as fishing gear. Recent 2026 amendments mandate registration for spearguns with barrel lengths exceeding 50 cm, aligning with sustainable fishing protocols.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Chile
- Permit Requirement: Spearguns must be registered with SUBPESCA if used for commercial or recreational fishing. Unregistered possession risks confiscation under Ley General de Pesca y Acuicultura (Law 20.657).
- Design Restrictions: Only spearguns with non-mechanical propulsion (e.g., rubber bands or springs) are permitted. Electric or compressed-air models are prohibited under firearm regulations (Decreto Supremo 103).
- Usage Zones: Spearfishing is banned in marine protected areas (e.g., Parque Marino Francisco Coloane) and within 500 meters of coastal urban zones to protect biodiversity. Violations incur fines up to 1,000 UTM (~$90,000 CLP).
Local enforcement prioritizes illegal sales and unpermitted spearguns, with Carabineros conducting periodic inspections in port cities like Valparaíso. Non-compliance may trigger administrative sanctions or criminal charges under environmental and firearms statutes. Always verify regional ordinances, as municipalities like Antofagasta impose additional restrictions.