Mace Spray Laws
Mace, or aerosolized phenacyl chloride, is sometimes used as a self-defense device, delivering a painful, burning sensation when sprayed into a perpetrator's face. It is effectively a tear gas, often mixed with pepper compounds. It is legal in the United States, though restrictions on form, use and sales apply on a state-by-state basis, and may be banned outright in some circumstances. Use of Mace has become uncommon, and the originating company often sells pepper spray in lieu of CN gas canisters.
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Federal Laws
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Federal law applies to all U.S. states. As with firearms, ownership of Mace sprays is restricted to individual 18 years of age or older. Mace is legal within the U.S.--however, restrictions apply on a state-by-state basis. Hunters are allowed to use pepper sprays as defense against bears and wildlife. Tear gas, however, cannot be utilized for such means.
State Restrictions--New York
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New York Residents may purchase Mace in the state of New York from licensed firearms dealers and pharmacists within the state. Online purchases are illegal.
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State Restrictions--Massachusetts
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Massachusetts As with New York, Massachusetts residents may only purchase Mace from licensed firearms dealers within the state.
State Restrictions--Michigan
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Michigan Michigan law limits ownership of self-defense sprays to OC pepper sprays of 2 percent concentration or less, and CS gas of 35 grams per can or less. CN gas, the variant most commonly referred to as "Mace," is illegal.
State Restrictions--Wisconsin
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Wisconsin Tear gas is not permissible within the borders of Wisconsin. Pepper sprays of concentrations up to 10 percent are authorized, with minimum/maximum range restrictions of 6 and 20 feet respectively. Such sprays also cannot be camouflaged and must come with a safety device to prevent accidental discharge.
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References
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