Changes went into effect Wednesday to the City of Saskatoon’s Business Licence Bylaw regarding the sale of bear spray.

The City says the changes affect all businesses which sell bear spray and are aimed at reducing its misuse particularly among young people.

Mark Wilson, Licensing and Permitting Manager says, “Bear spray incidents in Saskatoon have more than doubled in recent years with youth-related offences increasing by over 500 per cent since 2021.”

The City of Saskatoon is thanking businesses which sell bear spray saying they have been notified of the changes, and their support is appreciated.

Changes to the bylaw include:
– Mandatory buyer registry
– Record buyer’s name, address, phone number, date of birth
– Collect two pieces of ID (one with a photo)
– Document product details (manufacturer, model, serial number, etc.)
– Record date, time, and employee name who completed the sale
– Keep records for at least two years
– Buyers and sellers must be 18 years or older
– No sales to anyone who fails to properly identify themselves
– Bear spray must be stored out of public view
– Only unmodified, clearly labeled products may be sold
– Non-compliant businesses may face fines, suspension, or loss of licence