No. Spearguns are prohibited for recreational use under Brazil’s strict firearms and weapons laws, classified as “armas de fogo” by the Estatuto do Desarmamento (Law 10.826/2003). Civilian ownership is banned, with exceptions only for licensed hunters or professionals under IBAMA oversight, requiring prior authorization and compliance with environmental regulations.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Brazil
- Federal Prohibition: Spearguns are treated as firearms under Decreto 9.847/2019, which explicitly bans their civilian possession without special permits. Violations carry penalties up to 4 years imprisonment under Article 16 of the Estatuto do Desarmamento.
- Licensing Exceptions: Only individuals with IBAMA hunting licenses or professional permits (e.g., marine biologists) may possess spearguns, subject to annual renewals and inspections. Recreational spearfishers are ineligible.
- Environmental Compliance: Speargun use must align with IBAMA Normative Instruction 03/2014, which restricts operations to designated zones and prohibits endangered species targeting. Non-compliance risks fines up to R$ 50,000 (approx. USD 10,000).