No. Carrying a sword in public in Iceland is prohibited under the Weapons and Explosives Act No. 61/2010, unless explicitly permitted for ceremonial, historical, or professional purposes. The Icelandic Police (Lögreglan) enforces strict controls, and violations may result in confiscation or criminal charges. Recent 2026 amendments to the Act further tightened restrictions on bladed weapons in public spaces.
Key Regulations for Carrying a Sword in Public in Iceland
- Permit Requirement: A valid permit from the Icelandic Police is mandatory for carrying any bladed weapon longer than 10 cm in public. Applications require justification, such as historical reenactment or professional use (e.g., film production).
- Prohibited Contexts: Swords are banned in schools, government buildings, public events, and transportation hubs. Carrying a sword while intoxicated or in a manner likely to cause public alarm is criminalized under Article 17 of the Act.
- Storage and Transport: Swords must be transported in a non-public manner (e.g., locked in a vehicle’s trunk) unless actively used for permitted activities. Failure to comply risks immediate seizure under the Police Act No. 90/1996.