Yes, pepper spray is legal in Romania for self-defense under strict conditions. Civilian possession requires non-lethal classification, maximum 2% capsaicin content, and compliance with Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI) guidelines. Unauthorized import or use in public spaces may trigger criminal liability under the Weapons Law (Law No. 295/2004) and updated 2026 MAI directives.
Key Regulations for Pepper Spray in Romania
- Non-lethal classification: Only products certified as “self-defense sprays” by the Romanian Bureau of Metrology (BRML) are permitted. Homemade or uncertified variants are prohibited under Order 124/2023 of the MAI.
- Concentration limits: Maximum 2% capsaicin content; concentrations exceeding this are classified as chemical weapons under Emergency Ordinance 104/2021, punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment.
- Public use restrictions: Deployment in public spaces without imminent threat constitutes assault under the Criminal Code (Art. 180), with penalties escalating if harm occurs. Carrying in sensitive areas (e.g., government buildings, airports) requires prior MAI authorization per 2026 amendments.
Violations are enforced by the Romanian Police (Poliția Română) and Customs Authority (ANAF), with recent 2026 compliance audits targeting online sales platforms for unregistered imports. Travelers must declare pepper spray at customs; failure to do so may result in confiscation or fines up to €5,000.