What Does the Law Say About Pepper Spray in Federal Facilities?

Federal law, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 930, governs the possession of dangerous weapons in federal facilities. This statute strictly prohibits carrying dangerous items, including pepper spray and mace, within federal buildings. The law applies uniformly across all federal properties and is non-negotiable, meaning no individual waivers or exceptions can be made.

What is 18 U.S.C. § 930?

This U.S. Code defines “dangerous weapons” and explicitly includes items such as pepper spray, mace, stun guns, and other similar tools. The key points include:

• Dangerous Weapons: Any item classified as a dangerous weapon cannot be carried within federal facilities.
• No Exceptions: The Federal Security Committees (FSC) do not have the authority to waive or make exceptions to this rule.
• Commercial Building Considerations: Even in shared commercial buildings that house federal offices, these rules apply to all federal areas within the structure.

In short, pepper spray is considered a dangerous weapon under federal law and cannot be brought into federal facilities, no matter the circumstances.

Can Federal Employees Carry Pepper Spray?

One of the most frequently asked questions by federal employees and visitors alike is whether they can carry pepper spray for personal protection. Unfortunately, the answer is no. Whether you’re an employee working in a federal office or a visitor attending a meeting, the prohibition applies to everyone.

Exemptions for Employees

There are no blanket exemptions for federal employees to carry pepper spray or mace into federal facilities. Furthermore, even individual requests from employees for permission to bring such items into work will not be approved, as these items violate the definition of dangerous weapons under the law.

What About Commercial Buildings with Federal Offices?

In some cases, federal offices are located within commercial office buildings. Even here, the federal spaces are subject to the same prohibitions on pepper spray. While commercial buildings may offer storage solutions such as lockboxes, these storage options cannot be housed within the federal facility itself and must remain outside.

What Happens if I Walk to Work and Carry Pepper Spray?

For many people, walking to work requires taking precautions, especially in urban environments. Pepper spray offers a sense of security, but federal regulations do not allow you to store it inside the building once you arrive.

Lockboxes as a Solution

In some cases, Federal Security Committees may consider installing lockboxes outside federal facilities where individuals can store prohibited items, such as pepper spray or stun guns. These lockboxes, however, must remain outside of security screening areas and cannot be placed inside the federal building itself.

This could provide a viable option for those who walk to work and feel vulnerable without their pepper spray but still need to comply with federal laws.

Storing Pepper Spray in Your Vehicle

Employees and visitors who drive to federal buildings often wonder if they can store pepper spray or other prohibited items in their vehicles. The answer depends on the type of parking available:

• Commercial Parking Lots/Garages: If the parking lot is part of a commercial facility, and state/local laws allow it, you can store pepper spray in your vehicle.
• Federal Parking Lots: If the parking lot is considered part of the federal facility (for instance, an attached parking garage), you cannot store the pepper spray in your vehicle unless there is an authorized lockbox in place, and even then, it must meet specific requirements.

This distinction is crucial for anyone planning to carry self-defense tools like pepper spray while commuting to federal offices.

Are Other Self-Defense Items Allowed?

Federal law is very clear about what is considered a dangerous weapon. Besides pepper spray and mace, other prohibited items include:

• Stun Guns and Tasers
• Brass Knuckles
• Knives exceeding certain blade lengths
• Firearms

These items are also not allowed in federal facilities under any circumstances. It’s important to understand that the list of prohibited items is not exhaustive, and you should refer to the ISC Standard on Prohibited Items for a full list of what cannot be brought into a federal building.

What to Do if You See Suspicious Activity?

Federal employees and visitors should always remain vigilant when entering or leaving federal facilities. If you see anything suspicious or feel unsafe, you can report the activity immediately by calling the National Toll-Free Number for the Federal Protective Service (FPS) at 1-877-4FPS-411 (1-877-437-7411). In emergencies, you should always dial 911.

Safety Tips for Walking to and from Federal Facilities

While federal laws restrict the possession of pepper spray in federal buildings, personal safety should never be compromised. The Federal Protective Service offers several tips to stay safe when traveling to and from federal facilities:

1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Avoid using your phone or being distracted while walking.
2. Avoid Isolated Areas: Stick to well-lit, populated paths when walking.
3. Keep Your Hands Free: Try not to carry too many items, allowing you to react quickly in case of an emergency.
4. Use Personal Alarms: Although prohibited items like pepper spray are not allowed, personal alarms can provide an alternative tool for alerting others if you’re in distress.

For more information on safety tips, you can visit the FPS Personal Safety and Security Infographic.

Reference Page:

• FAQ for Prohibited Weapons at Federal Facilities