Are Riot Shields Legal?

If you’ve ever watched footage of a riot or a protest that got out of hand, you’ve probably seen law enforcement officers using riot shields as a form of self-protection and crowd control. These riot shields can effectively protect users against thrown projectiles, melee attacks, and non-lethal weapons such as water cannons and rubber bullets. But with violence growing in many parts of the world, many people are starting to ask: are riot shields legal for members of the public, or is their use restricted to the police, the military and security personnel? 

In the USA, UK, Australia and Canada, ordering and owning  riot shields are legal and can be shipped without hassle to your door. At The Survival Island, we offer safe and legal riot shield supply to the USA, UK, AU & Canada. You can browse the full riot shield range here.

In this article, we explain the legalities of riot shields in more detail for each of those nations.

 

Are riot shields legal in the US?

Wondering about the rules and regulations surrounding riot shields in the USA? Here’s everything you need to know:

Can I buy and use a riot shield in the US?

In the USA, it is legal at the federal level for members of the public to purchase and own riot shields for self-defence and home protection – and the same applies to ballistic shields that provide some protection against gunfire. Usually, you need to be aged 18 years or older and have never been convicted of a crime in order to purchase and wear body armour, which includes shields. However, it’s worth noting that laws can vary by state and even by city. 

When is it illegal to use a riot shield in the US?

Using a shield as an offensive weapon, to impersonate a law enforcement officer, or threaten, intimidate or coerce others is illegal. It’s also against the law to carry a riot shield during an unlawful assembly, particularly if it could be seen to escalate tensions.

Which US states impose restrictions on the use of riot shields?

Some cities and states in the US impose additional restrictions on riot shields that are not regulated at the federal level. For example, in Topeka, Kansas, it’s illegal to carry and wear body armour and shields at protests, rallies, parades and other public gatherings. In New York, only those working in an eligible profession may buy and own armour.

 

Are riot shields legal in Canada?

Here’s everything you need to know about the legal status of riot shields in Canada:

Can I buy and use a riot shield in Canada?

In Canada, it is generally legal to purchase and own a riot shield, though some states impose restrictions on ballistic shields. You can legally use standard riot shields for self-defence or if instructed to do so by law enforcement. You can also use riot shields in certain situations when working for a private security firm as a bouncer or guard, such as for crowd control in the event of a riot. Some sports, such as paintball and airsoft, may permit the use of riot shields.

When is it illegal to use a riot shield in Canada?

While riot shields are legal in Canada, it’s worth noting that using one for criminal activities, unlawful aggression, intimidation or threats, or at prohibited gatherings is illegal. 

Are ballistic shields legal in Canada?

Ballistic shields that offer some protection against gunfire are legal in most states in Canada. Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba and Nova Scotia currently impose a few restrictions on who can buy, own and use ballistic shields. 

In Nova Scotia, you can usually buy a ballistic shield provided you have a firearms licence (PAL). You’ll need to obtain a permit to purchase one in Manitoba and submit your fingerprints during the application process. In British Columbia and Alberta, you’ll usually need a military ID, security licence, law enforcement credentials or a valid firearms licence along with proof that you require body armour in order to purchase a ballistic shield.

 

Are riot shields legal in Australia?

Here’s a quick breakdown of the laws surrounding riot shields in Australia:

Can I buy and use a riot shield in Australia?

In Australia, there are no specific laws, rules or regulations that prohibit the use of riot shields or ballistic shields for self-defence and home protection. Standard riot shields are commonly used during Gelsoft and Airsoft competitions, though some fields and arenas impose certain restrictions in the interests of fair play. For example, some fields still count a hit if your shield is shot.

When is it illegal to use a riot shield in Australia?

Similar to the USA and Canada, in Australia it is illegal to use a riot shield as an offensive weapon or to impersonate a law enforcement officer. Shields may also be banned at certain events and in restricted areas. Participating in a riot with a shield is also illegal, unless you’re instructed to do so.

 

Are riot shields legal in the UK?

Here’s everything you need to know about the regulations surrounding the civilian use of riot shields in the UK:

Can I buy and use a riot shield in the UK?

Under the Firearms Act 1968 and the Offensive Weapons Act 1996, owning and using a riot shield or a ballistic shield for self-defence and home protection is legal in the UK. While there are no specific legal restrictions on civilians purchasing riot shields, it should be noted that shields cannot be used as an offensive weapon. Many law enforcement officers have faced legal consequences for using riot shields as weapons during unlawful public assemblies.

When is it illegal to use a riot shield in the UK?

Riot shields can only be used in the UK for defensive purposes. Even though there are currently no restrictions on purchasing riot shields, you should be aware that their use in the UK remains controversial. For example, British forces have found themselves embroiled in controversy for using shields as weapons. Also, many UK citizens believe riot shields encourage people to throw projectiles.

 

Want to Bolster Your Home Protection with a Riot Shield?

In the USA, Canada, Australia and the UK, it is usually legal to purchase, own and use either a riot shield or a ballistic shield for self-defence and home protection. Provided you don’t use your shield as an offensive weapon or for intimidation, you shouldn’t have any brush ins with the law. We have been shipping riot shields to Australia, UK, USA & Canada for over a decade without any problems, so you know you can purchase from us with peace of mind that it will arrive without a hitchh. We take care of all the import documentation import tax and clearance. If you still have concerns and need answers before pressing ahead with your purchase, don’t hesitate to call us.

At The Survival Island, we’re a team of survival and wilderness experts that are dedicated to helping our customers expand their limits in the fields of personal independence and survival. Contact us today to find out about the features of our riot shields and in which situations they can help you maximise your security.