In the state of Illinois, it is legal to purchase, carry and use pepperball spray for self defense. This includes the city of Chicago. At present, the state of Illinois does not have any laws in place dictating how large pepperball spray canisters can be, how potent their formula can be, or what style of canister they come in.
This lack of regulation means that individuals are free to purchase and carry whatever type of pepperball spray they feel best suits their needs. The laws are very clear on this matter: residents who are 18 years of age or older are allowed to use and carry non-lethal pepperball spray in an appropriate manner for self defense. This is a great way to protect yourself without having to resort to more lethal means.