In Canada, the law says you can defend yourself. But here’s the catch: it has to be reasonable. Just enough to stop the threat.
Sounds simple, right? It’s not.
The line between self-defense and assault is razor-thin. Use too much force, and you’re the criminal. Use too little, and you’re the victim. The system doesn’t care about your fear, your adrenaline, or your instincts.
It cares about the law. And the law is cold.
Before you think about defending yourself, you need to know this: the law isn’t on your side. Not really. It’s on the side of reasonableness.
And if you don’t understand what reasonable force means under the Criminal Code of Canada, you’re already at a disadvantage.
Keep reading. This could save you your life — or your freedom — as we explain what is considered reasonable force so that you know your rights.
An Overview: Canadian Self-Defense Laws
Canada’s self-defense law allows individuals to use reasonable force to protect themselves, others, or their property from immediate harm. However, the force used must be necessary and proportional to the threat. Excessive force, or any action intended to cause serious injury or death, is not justified under the law.
What Is Considered Reasonable Force?
The nature and severity of the threat
Whether a weapon was used or implied
The individual’s role in the altercation
Physical size, age, and abilities of those involved
History of conflict between the individuals
Whether the response was proportionate to the danger
Examples of Lawful Self-Defense
Physically removing an intruder from your home or business
Defending yourself with empty-handed techniques or non-lethal tools
Using a mobility aid, such as a cane or wheelchair, for self-protection
What Is Not Allowed?
Carrying prohibited weapons like pepper spray for self-defense
Using lethal force unless facing an immediate, life-threatening attack
Applying more force than necessary to neutralize the threat
Canadian self-defense laws prioritize proportionality and necessity—meaning an individual must act within the law to avoid legal consequences.
If you want to skip to learning how to defend yourself, I have a full Self-Defense 101 guide here.
What Self-Defense Actions Are Not Allowed Under Canadian Law?
You're Not Allowed To Carry Any Weapon or Tool
You cannot carry a self-defense weapon or tool with the intention of using it in self-defense against another human.
For example, pepper spray or similar prohibited self-defense weapons. while you cannot even purchase pepper spray in Canada unless you are the RCMP (unlike the States), bear spray can only be carried for use against bears and wildlife. Read my full guide on alternatives to pepper spray here.
You Cannot Use Lethal force If It's "Unreasonable" & Excessive
In a similar vein, you cannot apply force that exceeds what is necessary to neutralize a threat.
Canadian law recognizes the right to protect oneself, another person, or property from harm. However, the force used must be reasonable and necessary given the circumstances.
💡 Example: If someone pushes you to the ground in an argument, if you pull out a knife and stab them, the response is not reasonable. However, if someone attacks you with a knife or weapon, fighting back with equal force may be justified.
To claim self-defense under Canadian law, three conditions must be met:
You must believe you are in danger – This belief must be based on reasonable grounds.
Your actions must be for defensive purposes – If you acted out of revenge or aggression, it’s not self-defense.
Your response must be proportionate – The level of force used must match the level of threat.
This is all laid out in the Criminal Code of Canada, specifically Sections 34 and 35, lays out when self-defense is legally justifiable.
What Is Considered Reasonable Force?
💡 Example: If someone slaps you, punching them repeatedly in response would likely be excessive force. However, pushing them away to escape would likely be justified.
The law does not provide a strict definition of "reasonable force," as every situation is different. Courts will look at multiple factors when determining if your actions were justified, such as:
The nature of the threat – Was the danger immediate? Was it a verbal threat or a physical attack?
The person’s role in the incident – Were you the aggressor, or did you act purely in defense?
Whether a weapon was used or threatened – The presence of a weapon can change what is considered reasonable.
The size, age, and physical capabilities of the parties involved – A small person defending against a much larger attacker may be justified in using more force.
The history of the relationship between the parties – Prior threats or violence may be taken into account.
The proportionality of the response – The force used should not exceed what is necessary to stop the threat.
Examples of When Self-Defense Is Legal Canada
Self-defense cases are judged on an individual basis, but here are some examples of when force may be considered reasonable:
Using force to remove someone from your property – If someone refuses to leave your home and is being aggressive, physically escorting them out may be justified.
Fighting back against an attacker – If someone punches you, hitting them back to stop the attack could be considered reasonable.
Using an assistive device for protection – If someone in a wheelchair or with a cane defends themselves by striking an attacker, it may be considered a reasonable response.
What Is NOT Allowed?
Despite the right to self-defense, there are strict legal limits on what is permissible:
Using force intended to cause death or grievous bodily harm – Deadly force is rarely justified unless the threat to your life is immediate and inescapable.
Using excessive force – You cannot continue attacking someone once the threat is neutralized.
Carrying a weapon for self-defense – Unlike in the U.S., carrying items explicitly for self-defense, like pepper spray or batons, is illegal in Canada.
🚨 Example: If an intruder in your home is running away, shooting them in the back would not be self-defense—it would likely be considered excessive force.
Self-Defense and Home Invasions in Canada
Many Canadians wonder: Can I defend my home with force?
The law allows you to protect your home if your actions are reasonable. However, using deadly force is almost never justified unless you or your family are in imminent danger of serious harm or death.
✅ You can:
Use reasonable force to remove an intruder.
Defend yourself if you are under attack.
❌ You cannot:
Use a firearm unless in a life-threatening situation.
Harm an intruder who is not threatening you.
💡 Example: If an intruder is stealing your TV and is unarmed, attacking them with a weapon could result in criminal charges.
Weapons and Self-Defense: What Can You Carry in Canada?
Prohibited Items
The Firearms Act and Criminal Code restrict carrying weapons for self-defense purposes.
These include:
Pepper spray – Illegal for self-defense against humans, but bear spray is allowed for protection against wildlife.
Tasers and stun guns – Prohibited for personal use.
Brass knuckles – Classified as prohibited weapons.
Batons and collapsible sticks – Illegal to carry for self-defense.
Legal Alternatives for Personal Safety
Although carrying weapons for self-defense is illegal, some items can be carried legally if their primary purpose is NOT for self-defense:
✅ Bear spray/Dog Spray (only if carried for wildlife protection)
✅ Tactical flashlights (can disorient attackers)
✅ Personal alarms (can deter an assailant by drawing attention)
✅ Walking canes (if used as an assistive device)
💡 Tip: If you carry bear spray, be prepared to justify that it is for wilderness protection and not for self-defense against humans.
What to Do If You Act in Self-Defense
If you are involved in a self-defense situation, your actions will likely be investigated. Here’s what you should do:
Call 911 immediately – Report the incident and request medical or police assistance if needed. Do not elaborate and give lots of quotes to 911 over the phone because before you get a lawyer, the call could be used against you. Just report the facts, and do not blab unnecessarily.
Cooperate with police – Stick to the facts and avoid exaggerating the situation.
Seek legal counsel – Even if you believe your actions were justified, get a lawyer before making detailed statements.
FAQs: Canadian Self-Defense Laws
Is it legal to fight back in self-defense?
Yes, but only with reasonable force. Excessive or preemptive strikes may be considered assault.
Can I carry a knife for self-defense in Canada?
No, carrying a knife specifically for self-defense is illegal. However, carrying a knife for a legal purpose (e.g., work or camping) is allowed.
Can I shoot an intruder in self-defense in Canada?
Lethal force is only justified if there is an immediate and unavoidable threat to life. Shooting an unarmed intruder could result in criminal charges.
Is pepper spray legal in Canada?
No, pepper spray for self-defense against humans is illegal. Bear spray is allowed but must be carried for wildlife protection.
What should I do if I’m arrested after acting in self-defense?
Stay calm, do not admit fault, and contact a lawyer immediately. Your case will be evaluated based on the reasonableness of your actions.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights, Stay Within the Law
Self-defense in Canada is a legal right, but it comes with clear limitations. The key takeaway? The force you use must be reasonable and proportionate to the threat.
By understanding self-defense laws in Canada, you can protect yourself legally and effectively. Stay safe, and always ensure that your actions are within the boundaries of the law.
Stay safe!