Washington § 9.91.160 - Personal protection spray devices.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 9.91.160 — Personal protection spray devices., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 9.91.160. Personal protection spray devices.

(1) It is unlawful for a person under eighteen years old, unless the person is at least fourteen years old and has the permission of a parent or guardian to do so, to purchase or possess a personal protection spray device. A violation of this subsection is a misdemeanor.
(2) No town, city, county, special purpose district, quasi-municipal corporation or other unit of government may prohibit a person eighteen years old or older, or a person fourteen years old or older who has the permission of a parent or guardian to do so, from purchasing or possessing a personal protection spray device or from using such a device in a manner consistent with the authorized use of force under RCW 9A.16.020. No town, city, county, special purpose district, quasi-municipal corporation, or other unit of government may prohibit a person eighteen years old or older from delivering a personal protection spray device to a person authorized to possess such a device.
(3) For purposes of this section:
(a) "Personal protection spray device" means a commercially available dispensing device designed and intended for use in self-defense and containing a nonlethal sternutator or lacrimator agent, including but not limited to:
(i) Tear gas, the active ingredient of which is either chloroacetophenone (CN) or O-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile (CS); or
(ii) Other agent commonly known as mace, pepper mace, or pepper gas.
(b) "Delivering" means actual, constructive, or attempted transferring from one person to another.
(4) Nothing in this section authorizes the delivery, purchase, possession, or use of any device or chemical agent that is otherwise prohibited by state law.
[ 1994 sp.s. c 7 s 514.]

Notes

Finding—Intent—Severability—1994 sp.s. c 7: See notes following RCW 43.70.540.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 9.91.160

What does Revised Code of Washington § 9.91.160 cover?

Section 9.91.160 ("Personal protection spray devices.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. 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 Washington § 9.91.160?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 9.91.160" (Washington). 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 Washington law?

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

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

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