<p>“Possession of mace or pepper spray by any student on University property (even by those licensed to carry pepper spray through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts) is strictly prohibited.”</p>
<p>Just out of curiosity, why aren’t pepper sprays allowed in Massachusetts? I know in California lots of girls carry it around their keychains, but why is this not allowed in the state of Massachusetts? I hear you need an ID to purchase one :/</p>
<p>I’m not really sure of the exact reasons why. I know MA considers pepper spray as ammunition though so you do need to have a license to carry it. I don’t think the license is too difficult to get, but never personally got one. I would guess that the school prohibits students to carry pepper spray to try to keep inappropriate usage down. I would guess that you could easily keep some anyways though.</p>
<p>That being said, campus is very safe considering that we’re in the middle of a city. You barely ever hear of incidents happening around BU. We have a blue box security system to call police who will respond in 90 seconds or less. In West campus, there is a Boston University Police Department. Just walk with friends at night and everything and you should be fine.</p>
<p>Nonsense. Purchase one before you get here and put it in your purse.</p>
<p>In Massachusetts you need at least a restricted FID to carry pepper spray. I won’t try to explain the reasoning because, frankly, nonsensical laws cannot be explained. You can get an FID from the police and is a relatively simple procedure for the restricted license. As to why BU does not want legal, licensed individuals being able to defend themselves, I can’t explain that either. However, BU is in a pretty safe area and I’ve never had any problems. If it matters that much to you, go ahead and get the FID, but make sure not to carry in any university buildings.</p>
<p>Same reason you can’t keep your hookah, your handgun, or your samurai sword in your dorm room. These items are legal, strictly speaking, but I’m not sure I’d want them lying around in a freshman dorm. BUPD can keep them for you, if you’d like to have them. You won’t need the pepper spray if you act smart and safe. As Lauren said above, BU is a pretty safe place. Pepper spray can often be more trouble than it’s worth and can be used against you. Take the rape defense class BU offers if you’re worried.</p>