Knives and pepper spray in France (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: France classes daggers and tear-gas sprays of 100 ml or less as category D weapons. Carrying them without a legitimate reason is an offence.

RuleWhat applies
Folding pocket knivesCarrying in public places⚠ Not yet verified
Locking or one-handed knivesCarrying in public places⚠ Not yet verified
Fixed-blade knivesCarrying in public placesDaggers and dagger-knives are category D weapons. Fixed-blade knives with an edge, a point, a serrated back and more than one hole or several sharp points are category A weapons. [1]
Pepper sprayCarrying in public placesTear-gas or incapacitating aerosols of 100 ml or less are category D weapons. Larger ones are category B. [1]
Exceptions and legitimate reasonsCarrying in public placesCarrying or transporting weapons outside the home without a legitimate reason is an offence, even if the weapon is lawfully held. For category D it is punishable by up to one year and a fine of EUR 15,000. [2]

Notes

  • Ordinary folding knives are not named in Article R311-2. No official source read confirmed how they are treated, so the rule is not stated.
  • Exceptions in Articles L315-1 and L315-2 also apply. Low-danger weapons on an official list are treated differently.

Sources

  1. Légifrance: Article R311-2 – Code de la sécurité intérieure (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Légifrance: Article L317-8 – Code de la sécurité intérieure (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

Compare all countries →

General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.