Eliminating space debris in valuable Earth orbits is an urgent challenge for the sustainable development of outer space, and active removal is considered the most effective measure for debris elimination. In terms of legal jurisdiction, any country intending to remove space debris belonging to other countries undergoes a legality review encompassing obligations and liabilities. According to the fundamental principles of international space law, both threatened and capable countries possess the right to actively remove identifiable space debris of foreign nations, subject to strict legal obligations towards the registry country unless authorized by the United Nations, granted an agreement on jurisdiction transfer of debris, or justified by emergency necessity. Moreover, active removal may result in third-party space objects or personnel damage, imposing a substantial liability burden that could restrict space operation. Henceforth, it is imperative to establish a more rational legal regime for space liability allocation purposes. The international community can establish a mechanism for liability sharing and cross-waiver agreements among relevant countries while also considering potential fund establishment, involvement of non-governmental entities in cost-sharing efforts, and promoting commercial recycling initiatives as potentially motivating measures towards active removal.