SASKATOON — A Saskatoon business is accused of failing to comply with city bear spray sales and recording procedures under the city’s Business Licence Bylaw.
The charges stem from an investigation by the Saskatoon Police Service, aided by officials of the City Community Standards Department.
The charges are the first under recent amendments made to the Business Licence Bylaw. In July 2025, City Council changed the Bylaw to establish purchase and recording requirements for Saskatoon businesses selling bear spray.
The new rules are based on engagement with the business community, best practices and successes already in place at some sporting goods stores. The measures are also similar to processes in other Canadian municipalities.
Police officers and city officials have engaged business managers to ensure they understand the bylaw requirements which have received wide support.
Wildlife control products, commonly referred to as bear spray, are designed to repel wildlife through spraying pressurized liquid containing oil made from hot peppers. It causes burning eyes, strained breathing as well as nasal and throat irritation.
The product is not intended for use on humans or in an urban setting.
The purchaser must be at least 18 years old and provide two pieces of government-issued identification. The name, ID number, date of birth and address of the purchaser must be recorded by the business and made available to the city.
Bear spray must be stored in a secure area, out of view of customers and only products containing the manufacturer’s serial number may be sold.
