Is Throwing Stars (Shuriken) Legal in Romania After the 2026 Policy Reforms?

No, throwing stars (shuriken) are classified as offensive weapons under Romania’s Law No. 295/2004 on Weapons and Ammunition, making their possession or use illegal without a special permit. The Inspectoratul General pentru Situații de Urgență (IGSU) enforces these restrictions, and recent 2026 amendments tightened controls on bladed or pointed tools in public spaces.


Key Regulations for Throwing Stars (Shuriken) in Romania

  • Prohibited Classification: Shuriken fall under Category D weapons—offensive tools designed for attack—banned for civilian ownership unless authorized for historical, cultural, or martial arts purposes (e.g., koryū practitioners with IGSU-issued permits).
  • Permit Requirements: Applications must demonstrate a legitimate need (e.g., museum display, martial arts training) and undergo background checks by the Direcția Generală de Poliție a Siguranței Naționale (DGPSN). Recreational use is explicitly excluded.
  • Public Carriage Ban: Transporting shuriken in vehicles or public areas without prior approval risks confiscation and fines up to RON 10,000 (≈€2,000), per Government Emergency Ordinance 104/2026. Storage must be in secure, non-public locations.