How old do you have to be to buy spray paint? Continue reading for a detailed table of state-specific and store-specific spray paint rules and regulations, as well as information on why sales of spray paint are age-restricted.
Although the majority of state laws require that you be 18 years or older to buy spray paint, there is no federal age restriction for doing so. You should expect to be asked for identification or “carded” at neighborhood hardware stores. To reduce graffiti or stop minors from abusing inhalants, spray paint purchases are restricted.
Continue reading for more information.
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Why Do You Have to Be 18 to Buy Spray Paint?
The age restriction for spray paint is founded, like most restrictions, on some pragmatic justifications and safety considerations. Basically, most governments and businesses don’t want minors to get ahold of spray paint because they could harm themselves, others, or property with it.
Here are the most often cited reasons for restricting the purchase of spray paint:
- Spray paint is flammable
- Spray paint is an inhalant
- Spray paint is considered a graffiti tool
Spray Paint is Flammable
The majority of people are aware that spray paint is flammable.
The propellants mixed into spray paint and other substances are quite flammable, which raises serious safety concerns when using it near open flames. According to OSHA, spray painting releases many flammable materials and combustible vapors into the surrounding air. These vapors could catch fire if sparks or even static discharge ignite them.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the majority of people oppose allowing minors to possess spray paint as a result.
Spray Paint is An Inhalant
Even though spray paint itself isn’t a drug per se, people still use it to get high.
According to American Addiction Centers, huffing is a form of substance abuse where a person inhales the fumes from various household items to experience a high that includes euphoria and hallucinations. Unfortunately, this type of substance abuse is extremely dangerous, causing many injuries and deaths each year.
While restricting the sale of spray paint to adults doesn’t completely prevent the abuse of inhalants, it does make it more difficult for minors to obtain a substance that may be hazardous.
Spray Paint is Considered a Graffiti Tool
Spray paint is an accessory to crime when it is used to create graffiti, even though most people might not think of it in that way.
Graffiti is defined as a form of wall art that is typically created on public or private property without authorization. Graffiti is a well-respected art form, and commissioned pieces can be found all over the United States. Graffiti is viewed as a blight because it is an act of vandalism.
While restricting the sale of spray paint to adults won’t completely stop illegal graffiti, it does help keep children from having access to the paint.
Some Important Spray Paint Laws by State
A number of state regulations, some of which are very significant, are applicable to the sale and use of spray paint. You must meet all requirements and abide by all regulations set forth by the government in order to obtain spray paint.
California
Anyone under the legal drinking age in California is prohibited from receiving or buying a spray paint canister with the potential to vandalize property. Only people who are at least 18 years old may buy spray paint. In no way are the responsibilities of the parents or guardians altered.
It is illegal to have spray paint in plain sight at a place where a sign clearly states that it is not allowed there. This was done to prevent damage to property that is situated in a public space, such as a street or sidewalk.
According to California Penal Code 594.1, sellers of spray paint are required to inform customers that their purchase constitutes vandalism and may result in a fine, jail time, or both.
North Carolina
The minimum age to buy spray paint in North Carolina is 18. The state’s underage purchasing laws forbid anyone under the age of 18 from purchasing anything that is subject to age restrictions, including alcohol, tobacco products, and other goods.
For retailers selling spray paint, it is important to check ID’s to ensure that buyers are of legal age. A minor who is discovered trying to buy spray paint could face fines and other consequences. Retailers may occasionally be held accountable for supplying minors with age-restricted goods.
Although vandals and taggers may abuse spray paint, it can also be a useful tool for graffiti writers and artists. The sale of spray paint to children is therefore prohibited by law in many cities and towns.
You could be charged with a crime if you are found to have committed vandalism or been the target of graffiti. Vandalism with graffiti is punishable in North Carolina by a fine.
Be sure to check your local laws if you intend to use spray paint for art or other legitimate purposes to make sure you are not infringing on any laws.
To make sure you are getting a high-quality product, it is also crucial to buy spray paint from a reputable retailer.
Guam
In Guam, spray paint and broad-tipped indelible markers are regarded as adult-only products, and people under the age of 18 are not allowed to buy or sell either of these things.
The following factors are responsible for this result:
- It is prohibited to draw or write on any building, whether it is public or private, without first obtaining written consent.
- A teenager is guilty of committing graffiti by using spray paint or an indelible pen with a wide tip; and
- Minors who make unauthorized marks with spray paint or other materials on either public or private property.
It’s against the law to sell spray paint or broad-tipped indelible markers to minors. Due to this law, businesses are required to post signs near product displays alerting customers that graffiti is against the law (9 Guam Code Ann. 34.70).
New Jersey
In New Jersey, vandalism is referred to as “criminal mischief,” which primarily encompasses accusations of property damage. Graffiti on a building is likely to be prosecuted under N.J.S.A. as a criminal mischief offense. 17-3. Typically, you’ll be punished simply for the harm you’ve done and not for the message you’re trying to convey. Graffiti can be used to commit additional crimes.
If the damaged property is a church or other religious building, the offense may instead be prosecuted under New Jersey Statute 2C:33-11. Graffiti is rarely used by gangs or other criminal organizations to mark their territory or to terrorize members of particular racial or religious groups. Graffiti that contains racial epithets, threats, swastikas, or other images or texts meant to incite fear in others may be considered a separate crime.
The government must establish that you intentionally destroyed someone else’s property to charge you with criminal mischief. You could face legal action for careless property damage if you use explosives, fire, or other dangerous substances. The seriousness of the offense is determined by the amount of damage done:
A third-degree offense results in $2,000 or more in property damage.
Damage that exceeds $500 but falls short of $2,000 is classified as a fourth-degree crime, while damage that is $500 or less is classified as a disorderly person violation.
Kentucky
In Kentucky, the minimum age to purchase spray paint is 18 years old. The majority of US states follow a similar policy. Shopkeepers may request identification to confirm your age.
Spray paint is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of applications, from painting walls to creating art. It can, however, also lead to vandalism when used improperly. That’s why states have laws regulating the sale of spray paint to minors.
In Kentucky, if you are under the age of 18, you will not be able to purchase spray paint from any store. If you are caught trying to buy spray paint underage, you may be subject to disciplinary action from the store, including being banned from returning.
Make sure you are of legal age before buying spray paint if you’re in Kentucky. If not, you might have to deal with some consequences.
Minnesota
The minimum age to buy spray paint in Minnesota is 18. This follows the rules established by the state’s Department of Public Safety. Those who are caught selling spray paint to minors can face penalties, including fines and possible jail time.
For minors who are caught possessing or using spray paint, the consequences are typically less severe. The use of spray paint to vandalize property is, however, a crime that should be noted and prosecuted.
Minors may occasionally be asked to complete community service or make up losses they caused by paying restitution.
Be sure to research the regulations in your state before buying spray paint if you intend to. In some states, the legal age to purchase spray paint may be higher than 18.
In others, the sale of spray paint to minors may be completely banned. By being aware of the laws in your state, you can avoid any possible penalties.
Indiana
Spray paint can only be purchased by those who are 18 years old or older in Indiana. This is in accordance with the state’s general laws on the sale of products.
There are a few notable exceptions to this rule. For instance, with parental consent, a person may purchase spray paint at a younger age if they need it for a job or project that calls for it.
Additionally, some stores may sell spray paint to people under the age of 18 if they have a valid ID proving their age.
In Indiana, however, a person must be 18 years old to purchase spray paint. Those who are caught trying to buy spray paint while underage may be subject to fines or community service.
New Mexico
The minimum age to buy spray paint in New Mexico is 18. This is in accordance with the state’s laws governing the age of majority, which specify that people must be 18 years old to sign contracts or make certain purchases.
Spray paint can be used for various purposes, both positive and negative. On the plus side, you can use spray paint for crafts, to liven up drab surfaces with color, and to create short-term markings or signs. On the negative side, graffiti, vandalism, and other illegal activities can be committed using spray paint.
Many states have passed legislation governing the sale and use of spray paint in order to prevent potential misuse. These regulations are intended to deter the use of spray paint for illegal activities in New Mexico and to stop minors from purchasing it.
If a minor tries to buy spray paint, they might get turned away, asked to leave the store, or face other consequences.
Individuals must abide by all applicable federal, state, and local laws in addition to the minimum age requirement.
For instance, certain municipalities and counties in New Mexico have passed their own ordinances governing the distribution and application of spray paint.
These ordinances might also impose additional limitations on the sale of spray paint, like requiring sellers to verify their identity or keeping the product behind a counter.
Finally, it is significant to remember that even if a person is of legal age to buy spray paint, they may still be subject to criminal penalties if they use the spray paint for illegal activities.
For instance, someone who damages property with spray paint may be charged with a crime and subject to fines, jail time, or both. Use spray paint only for authorized purposes as a result.
You should seek legal advice from an experienced attorney if you have any concerns about the New Mexico laws governing spray paint or if you require assistance with a criminal matter involving spray paint.
Rhode Island
According to Rhode Island General Law 11-44-1, vandalism and acts that undermine legal activities are punishable by law. A potential sentence of one year in prison and a fine of $1,000 are both on the table in Rhode Island under the terms of this law.
The severity of the penalties, which could range from a fine to a criminal record, will depend on how severe the vandalism was. If the amount of damage is more than $400, the perpetrator risks a possible jail sentence of one to three years and a fine of $10,000 or more. When the amount of property damage is less than $400, the perpetrator may be prosecuted for a misdemeanor, with a maximum penalty of $1,000 and a year in county jail.
Texas
In Texas, spray paint fumes are used as a deterrent to prevent minors from abusing it. According to the law, stores cannot sell or distribute “abusable glue or aerosol paint” to minors.
For these retailers, a state license is necessary. Selling to minors is prohibited and is considered a third-degree crime. Thus, they must post a sign stating such.
Under the V.T.C.A., retailers are required to display spray paint in areas that are (1) directly visible to the cashier or another continuously occupied workstation, (2) only accessible by shop staff, or (3) under the watchful eye of surveillance equipment. 485.012 to 485.019 clause).
How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy Spray Paint at Walmart?
To buy spray paint at Walmart, you must be at least 18 years old. This is as a result of federal laws that prohibit sales of hazardous material-containing products to children.
Spray paint can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including walls, furniture, and even artwork. However, it is important to use caution when handling this product, as it can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Always use a respirator or mask and work in a well-ventilated area when using spray paint.
Ask a parent, grandparent, or other responsible adult for assistance if you are under 18 and need to buy spray paint for a project.
You can also check out local hardware stores or art supply stores, as they may have less stringent age restrictions.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy Spray Paint at Lowe’s?
Regarding the sale of spray paint, Lowe’s complies with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and rules. As a result, you must be 18 years old to buy spray paint at Lowe’s, and based on anecdotal evidence, it appears that if you try to check out with a can of spray paint, you will likely be carded or asked for identification.
When you attempt to purchase spray paint online at Lowe’s, there are no notices about age restrictions pertaining to the purchase of spray paint, and the website does not request your age before purchasing for in-store pickup or at-home delivery.
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Do You Have to Be 18 to Buy Sharpies in Texas?
The minimum age to buy Sharpies in Texas is 18. This is because people must be at least 18 years old in order to buy any kind of pen or marker that contains permanent ink, according to a state law.
The purpose of this law is to stop minors from having access to Sharpies and other types of markers that could be used for vandalism or other illegal activities.
If you are found trying to buy Sharpies while underage, you could get fined or face other consequences. Therefore, you must first be at least 18 years old if you want to purchase Sharpies in Texas.
Summary: How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy Spray Paint?
It is perfectly legal for anyone over the age of 18 to buy and use spray paint for personal purposes. The government has set a minimum age requirement for purchasing spray paint in order to stop acts of vandalism.
Nevertheless, before you start spray painting anything, you should always verify with the relevant authorities in the area. Be careful to inquire about the regulations that govern the use of spray paint in your region.