Self-Defense Spray
It is legal to possess self-defense sprays such as mace or pepper spray in the District of Columbia. However, the only legal types of self-defense sprays are a mixture of a lacrimator including chloroacetophenone, alphacloroacetophenone, phenylchloromethylketone, orthochloriobenazaim-alononitrile or oleoresin capsicum. Additionally, the self-defense spray must be propelled from an aerosol container, labeled with clearly written instructions for use, and dated with its anticipated useful life. A person may use a self-defense spray only as reasonable force to defend themselves or their property and only if the self-defense spray meets the requirements above.
References: DC Code § 7-2502.12, DC Code § 7-2502.13
Stun Guns
A person 18 years or older may possess a stun gun in the District of Columbia, and it may only be used to protect themselves or their property. No one other than a law enforcement officer is allowed to possess a stun gun in a building or office occupied by the District of Columbia government, a penal institution, a secure juvenile residential facility, a halfway house, any building that is occupied by a children’s facility, preschool, elementary or secondary school, or any building or grounds in which the owner or occupant clearly posts signs forbidding the carrying of a stun gun.
A business that sells more than five stun guns in a 12-month period must obtain a stun gun endorsement on their basic business license from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection.
References: DC Code § 7-2502.15, DC Code § 7-2502.16