No, pepper spray is classified as a prohibited weapon under Iceland’s Law on Firearms and Other Weapons (No. 16/1991), making its possession or use illegal without explicit authorization. The Icelandic Police (Ríkislögreglan) enforces this ban, with violations potentially resulting in fines or imprisonment under the General Penal Code (No. 19/1940). Exceptions exist for licensed security personnel, but civilian carry remains prohibited.
Key Regulations for Pepper Spray in Iceland
- Prohibition Status: Pepper spray is treated as a “dangerous weapon” under Article 3 of the Law on Firearms and Other Weapons, requiring no further justification for confiscation.
- Enforcement by Police: The Ríkislögreglan conducts random checks, particularly at borders and airports, where undeclared possession triggers immediate legal proceedings.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: Amendments to the Law on Firearms (effective January 2026) expand penalties for unauthorized possession, including mandatory confiscation and potential criminal records for repeat offenses.
Civilian exceptions are rare, typically limited to individuals with special permits for occupational hazards, such as wildlife researchers in remote areas. Importing pepper spray—even for personal use—violates customs regulations enforced by the Directorate of Customs (Tollstjórn ríkisins). Travelers found with pepper spray face immediate detention and deportation under Article 17 of the Aliens Act (No. 80/2016).