Law-abiding citizens who never jaywalk and count car lengths to avoid tailgating might have a hard time remembering some of the lesser-known regulations, which seem to defy logic entirely. From forbidding camels on highways to banning puppet shows, these laws are just plain weird. Let’s explore the quirkiest mandates still on the books.
Singing Off-Key
In North Carolina, it’s illegal to sing off-key. This law originally aimed to preserve the quality of church music. Today, it stands as a curious relic of a more musically opinionated time.
No Camels on Highways
In Nevada, camels are not allowed on highways. This law dates back to the mid-19th century when camels were used as pack animals. The intent was to keep these large, unpredictable animals off the same paths as horse-driven carriages.
Officers May Bite a Dog
In Paulding County, Ohio, it is lawful for a police officer to bite a dog to quiet it. This strange law begs many questions, and enforcement has been, understandably, inconsistent.
Illegal to Mispronounce
In Arkansas, mispronouncing the state name is strictly prohibited. The law was enacted to preserve the state’s heritage and ensure it is pronounced correctly. Violators, thankfully, are only corrected and not fined.
No Public Puppet Shows
In Glendale, California, public puppet shows are banned. This ordinance was introduced to prevent gatherings that might block city sidewalks. Today, it serves more as an amusing anecdote than an enforced law.
Whale Fishing
It’s illegal to fish for whales on Sunday in Ohio. Considering Ohio is landlocked, this law is as impractical as it is absurd. It remains a humorous example of legislative oversight and attempt at humor.
No Snoring
In Massachusetts, it’s illegal to snore unless all bedroom windows are closed and securely locked. This law intends to maintain peace and quiet at night. Enforcement remains a mystery, as does compliance.
Cheese Standards
In Wisconsin, cheese must be highly pleasing to qualify as cheese. This law ensures the quality of one of the state’s most famous exports. It reflects Wisconsin’s pride in its dairy heritage but raises eyebrows on what “highly pleasing” exactly means.
No Drunken Skiing
In Wyoming, skiing under the influence of alcohol is a punishable offense. This law aims to ensure safety on the slopes. It makes perfect sense, but its specificity for skiing adds a touch of the unusual.
Forbidden Bear Wrestling
In Alabama, bear wrestling matches are strictly prohibited. This law was introduced as a measure against animal cruelty. While it’s a necessary statute, the specificity of prohibiting bear wrestling highlights past practices that were indeed ridiculous.
Illegal Billiards
In Montana, it’s illegal to play pool on Sundays. The law, dating back to more puritanical times, aimed to preserve the Sabbath day’s sanctity. Today, it’s a seldom-enforced reminder of old societal norms.
Ban on Ice Cream Cones
In Alabama, putting an ice cream cone in your back pocket is forbidden. Historically, this was a method used to steal horses. Today, the law stands as a quirky, albeit impractical, prohibition.
No Flying Kites
In Victoria, Australia, flying a kite in a public place is an offense if it bothers someone. This law was meant to prevent nuisances in public spaces. Its enforcement is rare, but the rule underscores the balance sought between fun and public peace.
No Dirty Tires
In Minnetonka, Minnesota, driving a car with dirty tires is considered a unsightly public nuisance. This law is intended to keep public roads clean. Enforcement is as tricky as the law is unique.
Forbidden Sassy Pants
In Louisiana, it’s illegal to order goods while wearing a mask unless you have a permit. Originally intended to prevent crime, the law now occasionally complicates festivities like Mardi Gras. It’s a fine example of a practical law that can lead to ridiculous situations.
No Couches on Porches
In Boulder, Colorado, couches on front porches are banned. This ordinance aims to prevent fire hazards. It also helps prevent mold from growing on upholstered furniture exposed to the weather.
No Public Bingo Games
In North Carolina, bingo games cannot last more than five hours unless they are held at a fair. The law aims to limit gambling activities. It’s a peculiar restriction that has both amused and frustrated bingo enthusiasts.
Banned Blue Jeans
In Carmel, California, wearing blue jeans was historically restricted. The town aimed to maintain a certain aesthetic. Though rarely enforced today, this fashion law is a nod to past times when dress codes were taken very seriously.
Silent in the Library
In New Jersey, it’s illegal to whisper in a public library. The intention is clear—to maintain a quiet environment. Yet, the focus on whispering specifically makes it an amusingly stringent rule.
No Gorilla in the Backseat
In Massachusetts, it’s illegal to transport a gorilla in the backseat of any car. This law probably aimed to address exotic pet transportation. Its specificity makes it one of the more bizarre stipulations still on the books.
No Fortunetelling
In Maryland, practicing fortunetelling was forbidden. This law aimed to protect residents from fraud, but the court later ruled that fortunetelling was protected speech and therefore perfectly legal.
