Massachusetts § 122D - Persons prohibited from purchase or possession of self-defense spray; permit; change of address

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 122D — Persons prohibited from purchase or possession of self-defense spray; permit; change of address, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 122D. Persons prohibited from purchase or possession of self-defense spray; permit; change of address

Section 122D. (a) No person under 18 years of age may purchase or possess self-defense spray without a self-defense spray permit issued by a licensing authority in accordance with section 121F. A self-defense spray permit shall be valid to purchase and possess self-defense spray, including all chemical mace, pepper spray or other similarly propelled liquid, gas or powder designed to temporarily incapacitate.

(b) A local licensing authority may issue to a person at least 15 years of age but less than 18 years a self-defense spray permit if the person is not a prohibited person or unsuitable under section 121F. A self-defense spray permit shall be issued for the sole purpose of purchasing and possessing self-defense spray and shall clearly state that it is valid for such limited purpose only. This permit may be issued to a person at least 12 years of age but less than 15 years if the person is not a prohibited person or unsuitable under section 121F and if the applicant submits with their application a certificate from the applicant's parent or guardian granting permission to apply for this permit.

(c) A self-defense spray permit shall be valid for a period of 3 years and shall expire on the anniversary of the permit holder's date of birth occurring not less than 3 years nor more than 4 years from the date of issue. Any permit issued to an applicant born on February 29 shall expire on March 1.

(d) A permit holder shall report any change of address via the electronic firearm registration system administered by the commissioner of the department of criminal justice information services. Such notification shall be made on the portal within 30 days of its occurrence. Failure to so notify shall be cause for revocation or suspension of such permit.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 122D

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 122D cover?

Section 122D ("Persons prohibited from purchase or possession of self-defense spray; permit; change of address") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 122D?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 122D" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 122D apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.