Yes, spearguns are legal in Sweden but strictly regulated under the Jaktförordningen (Hunting Ordinance) and Vapenlagen (Firearms Act). Private ownership requires a hunting license, and spearguns are classified as “hunting weapons,” necessitating compliance with municipal and county administrative board permissions. Recent 2026 amendments to the Naturvårdsverket guidelines now mandate mandatory registration for all spearguns, aligning with EU firearms directive adaptations.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Sweden
- Hunting License Requirement: Spearguns may only be used by licensed hunters during approved seasons, as defined by the Jaktförordningen (Chapter 4, §12). Unlicensed possession constitutes a misdemeanor under the Brottsbalken (Penal Code).
- Municipal Permissions: County administrative boards (Länsstyrelsen) must approve speargun storage locations, with inspections conducted biennially to verify compliance with Vapenlagen (Firearms Act, §8).
- Restricted Use Areas: Spearguns are prohibited in marine protected zones (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten designated areas) and within 500 meters of public beaches or urban centers, per Miljöbalken (Environmental Code, §7).
Violations incur fines up to 50,000 SEK or confiscation under Vapenlagen (2026 amendments). Imports require prior notification to the Kustbevakningen (Coast Guard) for maritime transport compliance.