If you thought the U.S. legal system was all about boring statutes and dry courtroom dramas, think again. Buried in the books of state legislation are rules so strange, so bizarre, you’d think they were made up during a midnight prank session!
No Ice Cream in Your Pocket, Please!
Kentucky says no to carrying ice cream cones in your pocket. Why? Because back in the day, people used them to steal horses. Yes, horses.
While horse thievery isn’t exactly booming anymore, the law stuck around. Now it mostly saves you from sticky pants and confused glances.
So, remember: ice cream is for eating, not pocketing. Kentucky’s priorities might seem weird, but at least your jeans will stay clean.
Don’t Fake a Duel in Texas
Texas has outlawed fake duels. Turns out, pretending to have an old-school gunfight is a big nope in the Lone Star State.
Why the drama? Apparently, some of these pretend shootouts got way too real. Texans don’t mess around, even when they’re messing around.
So if you’re feeling the cowboy vibes, maybe just stick to “Yeehaw!” and leave the duels to the movies.
Arkansas and the Mispronunciation Police
In Arkansas, calling it “Ar-Kansas” is basically blasphemy. It’s “Ar-kan-saw,” and locals won’t hesitate to remind you—politely or not.
This law exists more for pride than enforcement. But hey, mispronounce it at your own risk. People take their syllables seriously here.
Practice in front of a mirror before your trip, or be ready for a grammar lesson from an enthusiastic Arkansan.
Michigan Says No to Fancy Swearing
Swearing in front of women and children in Michigan? Illegal. This rule comes from a time when public manners were a big deal.
These days, the law is mostly ignored, but it’s still a great excuse to keep your colorful language on the down-low.
Next time you stub your toe in Michigan, keep it PG. The sidewalks and innocent ears will appreciate your restraint.
Forget Bingo on Sundays in North Carolina
North Carolina says you can’t play bingo for more than five hours on Sundays. Apparently, marathon bingo is where they draw the line.
The rule comes from old “blue laws” meant to keep Sundays wholesome. Nothing says rebellious like illegal bingo dabbers.
So, clock your bingo time carefully. If you’re hitting that five-hour mark, maybe switch to cards—or take a well-deserved nap.
Don’t Mess With Bigfoot in Washington
In Washington, it’s illegal to harm Bigfoot. Yes, Bigfoot. Because, you know, just in case he’s real, the law is ready to protect him.
Whether you’re a believer or not, the law is a win for conservation. Sasquatch, squirrels—everyone gets to chill in peace.
So, if you’re tempted to hunt Bigfoot, think twice. Washington prefers its mythical creatures unbothered and its forests drama-free.
No Forks in Fried Chicken in Georgia
In Gainesville, Georgia, eating fried chicken with a fork is banned. Why? Because hands-only chicken is apparently a sacred Southern tradition.
The law’s not really enforced, but it’s a reminder to embrace the finger-lickin’ goodness of crispy chicken. Forks are for quitters.
So dig in, get messy, and remember: your hands were made for this. Gainesville agrees.
Don’t Sell Your Eye in Texas
Yes, Texas has an actual law against selling your eyeballs. Because, apparently, someone thought hawking your peepers might be a viable side hustle. Spoiler: it’s not.
Apparently, this rule’s about stopping shady body-part sales. Which, honestly, seems like a fair boundary to set.
So, if you’re strapped for cash, maybe skip the DIY organ market. Texas would prefer you keep your eyes in your head.
No Bear Wrestling in Alabama
Alabama doesn’t just frown on bear wrestling—it outright bans it. Because apparently, this was a real issue.
The law protects bears from cruelty and people from really dumb decisions. Wrestling a bear? Not your best life choice.
If you’re itching for a challenge, try wrestling your laundry pile. It’s safer and far less illegal.
Pickles Must Bounce in Connecticut
In Connecticut, a pickle isn’t a pickle unless it bounces. This rule started after a scandal involving fake, non-bouncy pickles. Scandalous, right?
It’s all about quality control. No floppy cucumbers passing as pickles on their watch. Connecticut takes its brining very seriously.
So if you’re selling pickles, give them a test bounce. Connecticut won’t stand for lazy, limp imposters.
No Sleeping with Cheese in South Dakota
In South Dakota, it’s illegal to sleep in a cheese factory. Apparently, dreams and dairy production just don’t mix well together.
This quirky rule likely exists for safety reasons. Falling asleep near heavy machinery or vats of cheese isn’t exactly what you’d call a “brie-lliant” idea.
So, if you’re visiting a cheese factory, stay alert and upright. South Dakota’s cheese curds are great, but the law says no snoozing near them.
No Honking Near Sandwich Shops in Arkansas
Arkansas has banned honking your car horn near sandwich shops at night. It’s all about keeping things peaceful for sandwich lovers.
The rule might seem weird, but who doesn’t want their late-night sandwich vibes undisturbed by random car horns?
If you’re driving by a sandwich shop after dark, keep it quiet. Nobody wants their turkey sub interrupted by your impatience.
No Singing Off-Key in North Carolina
North Carolina technically bans singing off-key in public. So if you’re not the next Beyoncé, maybe hum instead.
This law likely came about to prevent overly enthusiastic, pitch-deaf serenades from torturing innocent ears. A noble cause, really.
Next time you’re in North Carolina, consider a quick warm-up. The state’s got no patience for musical chaos.
Don’t Play Dominoes on Sundays in Alabama
In Alabama, playing dominoes on Sundays was once illegal, as part of the state’s “blue laws” aimed at preserving the Sabbath’s sanctity.
These laws restricted various activities, including gaming and card playing, to encourage rest and religious observance.
However, this particular prohibition was repealed in 2015, allowing Alabamians to enjoy their domino games any day of the week.
No Whistling Underwater in Vermont
Vermont has an actual law against underwater whistling. How would anyone even enforce this? Are there scuba police patrolling the lakes for rogue whistlers?
The origins of this peculiar rule are murky at best. Maybe it’s Vermont’s way of saying, “Let’s keep things classy—or at least quiet—underwater.”
So, next time you’re in a Vermont lake, let the fish swim in peace. Whistling is for the birds, not for your underwater adventures.
No Riding Ugly Horses in Washington
Back in the day, Johnny Carson joked on The Tonight Show that riding an “ugly” horse in Wilbur, Washington, was illegal. Turns out, he wasn’t kidding.
This odd law was signed in 1894 and aimed to stop sick or injured horses from being ridden. But calling them “ugly”? Come on, Wilbur.
Luckily, it was repealed 100 years later. So, next time you’re in Washington, remember: all horses are beautiful, and the law finally agrees.
No Slapping Fish in Kansas
Kansas has a law that bans catching fish with your hands. And yes, that also means slapping a fish is technically a no-go. Weird, right?
This rule likely exists to protect fish from overly “creative” fishing methods. The state prefers you stick to traditional tools like rods, nets, or even good old-fashioned patience.
So, if you’re fishing in Kansas, resist the urge to go hands-on. Your fishy friends—and the law—would much rather you keep it civilized and slap-free.
No Driving Blindfolded in Alabama
Alabama explicitly bans driving blindfolded. Because apparently, someone once thought this was a good idea.
This law is one of those “duh” moments in legislation. Eyes on the road, folks. Blindfolded stunts are for action movies.
If you’re tempted to try it, don’t. Alabama likes its drivers fully alert and 100% un-blindfolded.
Don’t Keep Exploding Golf Balls in Massachusetts
Massachusetts bans exploding golf balls. As if regular golf wasn’t exciting enough, someone thought, “Let’s add explosives!”
This law prevents mischief on the greens and potential lawsuits. Your golf game should be skill-based, not combustion-based.
Next time you tee off, keep it classic. No fireworks needed—Massachusetts likes its golf drama-free.
Don’t Carry Your Violin in Public on Sundays in Indiana
Indiana once banned carrying a violin in public on Sundays. Because clearly violins were the most disruptive instrument back then.
This law likely came from blue laws aimed at limiting non-religious activities. Who knew violins could be so scandalous?
If you’re a violinist, maybe take Sundays off in Indiana. Or go electric—this law probably doesn’t cover amps.
No Feather Dusters in Public in Maine
In Portland, Maine, tickling a woman under the chin with a feather duster is illegal. Who knew chin-tickling was such a serious offense?
The law doesn’t ban feather dusters outright—just their use as tickle tools. So, if you’re carrying one, keep it pointed at the furniture.
Whether it’s about boundaries or just a weird anti-tickle agenda, Portland says no to playful chin dusting. Your duster, your rules—just not on someone’s face!
No Eating Frogs After Frog-Jumping Contests in California
California makes it illegal to eat frogs that participated in frog-jumping contests. These frogs are competitors, not dinner!
This law likely came from small-town traditions where frogs were local celebrities, not appetizers. Protecting their leaping legacy is a priority.
So, after the contest, let the frogs hop into retirement. California says they’ve earned their freedom and the right to not end up on a plate.
No Bear Wake-Up Calls in Alaska
In Alaska, it’s illegal to wake a sleeping bear to take a photo. This law protects both bears and overly bold photographers.
Waking bears is a recipe for disaster—they’re not morning creatures. The law helps prevent dangerous encounters and keeps humans from testing their luck.
So, if you stumble upon a napping bear, admire from a distance. Alaska says let sleeping bears lie—and avoid becoming part of their snack menu!
No Gargling in Public in Louisiana
In Louisiana, public gargling is off-limits. Because, obviously, nothing screams “disturbing the peace” like someone loudly swishing mouthwash on Main Street.
This law was probably about hygiene—or just an effort to avoid public awkwardness. Either way, keep the gargles private.
So, if you’re in Louisiana and feel the urge to freshen up, save it for the bathroom. Public gargling isn’t a thing.
Don’t Sell Dog Hair in Delaware
Delaware bans selling dog hair. Yes, this law actually exists, and yes, it’s as weird as it sounds.
Maybe someone once tried to turn shedding season into a business opportunity. Delaware wasn’t having it and shut that down fast.
If you’re dreaming of a dog hair empire, dream smaller. Delaware’s market for fluff is legally non-existent.
No Milking Someone Else’s Cow in Texas
Texas won’t tolerate you milking someone else’s cow. Seriously, this law exists, and it’s as specific as it sounds.
Apparently, cow-related theft was a thing back in the day. Today, it’s mostly about respecting your neighbor’s dairy rights.
So, hands off those udders unless they’re yours. Texas cows—and their owners—don’t take kindly to freeloaders.
No Throwing Rocks at Trains in Wisconsin
Wisconsin makes it illegal to throw rocks at trains. It’s a simple request: don’t be that person.
The law probably came about to protect train windows—and passengers—from overly enthusiastic rock tossers. Makes sense, right?
So, when the train rolls by, wave. Don’t throw rocks. Wisconsin prefers friendly gestures to projectile-based greetings.
No Kissing While Mustachioed in Iowa
Iowa says mustached men can’t kiss women in public. This law is hilariously outdated but technically still on the books.
It probably started as a public decency rule, though it’s unclear why mustaches specifically got called out. Anti-stache bias, maybe?
If you’re rocking facial hair in Iowa, kiss with confidence. Just know the law might be silently judging you.
No Bare-Handed Fishing in Indiana
Indiana’s ban on catching fish with bare hands stems from concerns over conservation and safety. The state wanted fishing to stay fair and, well, less slippery.
Back in the day, bare-handed fishing (or “noodling”) was popular but disruptive. It allowed people to catch fish from their hiding spots, giving the fish no chance.
Today, the law ensures traditional methods like rods and nets are used. Indiana wants fishing to be a sport, not an underwater wrestling match!
No Wearing Transparent Clothing in Rhode Island
Rhode Island bans transparent clothing in public. Apparently, they wanted to make sure nobody overshared in the wardrobe department.
This rule likely came from older public decency standards, though today, it’s more of a “just don’t be weird” guideline.
So, if you’re dressing for a day out in Rhode Island, leave some things to the imagination. The law insists.
No Roosters in Public in New Jersey
New Jersey has no room for roosters in public spaces. Maybe it’s the noise, maybe it’s the feathers—either way, keep them home.
Roosters are loud and proud, but New Jersey isn’t here for early morning wake-up calls on city streets. Fair enough.
So, if your rooster needs a stroll, think twice. New Jersey sidewalks are rooster-free zones.
No Eating Oranges in the Bath in California
California has a law against eating oranges in the bathtub. Maybe someone slipped on a peel, and lawmakers decided to prevent future citrus disasters.
The rule doesn’t make much sense, but it’s still technically illegal. Apparently, California prefers its bathtubs bubble-filled, not orange-flavored.
So, enjoy your oranges elsewhere. Bathtime and snacktime don’t mix here. Keep the citrus in the kitchen where it belongs, and avoid fruity bathroom mishaps.
No Fishing in Pajamas in Illinois
In Chicago, Illinois, fishing while wearing pajamas is illegal. Because nothing says “crime” like catching bass in your bedtime best.
This law likely came about to preserve public decency or discourage ultra-casual anglers from taking over the lakes. Pajamas are apparently a line-crosser.
So, if you’re fishing in Chicago, swap the PJs for waders. The fish—and the fashion police—will appreciate it.
No Spitting on the Sidewalk in Arizona
Arizona says no to spitting on sidewalks. It’s not just gross—it’s against the law. Keep your saliva to yourself, folks.
This rule probably started as a public health measure back when hygiene was a serious concern. Today, it’s just good manners.
If you feel the need to spit, find a trash can or tissue. Arizona sidewalks deserve better than your spit takes.
No Missile Tossing at Cars in Colorado
In Alamosa, Colorado, throwing missiles at cars is illegal. While it seems obvious, the law ensures no one gets creative with destructive projectiles.
This rule likely came about to protect property and drivers. Missiles—or anything resembling them—don’t exactly make for safe or friendly road conditions.
So, next time you’re in Alamosa, keep your missile ambitions in check. Colorado prefers its roads missile-free and its drivers stress-free!
No Stink Bombs in Alabama
Alabama bans stink bombs, because nobody needs that kind of chaos. Pranks that clear a room are fun in theory—not in legal practice.
The law keeps public spaces fresh and pranksters in check. No one wants their day ruined by a whiff of sulfur.
So, if you’re tempted to bring the stink, don’t. Alabama prefers its air—and its sense of humor—clean.
No Owning Exploding Cigar Devices in Tennessee
Tennessee doesn’t mess around with explosive cigar gadgets. If it’s designed to blow up, whether it’s a cigar or not, it’s a big no-no.
The law’s clear: anything explosive that’s meant for chaos is off-limits. But don’t worry—legal fun like fireworks or exploding targets for sports gets a pass.
So, if you’re lighting up in Tennessee, keep it chill. Cigars are for relaxing, not making your friends’ faces look like a cartoon explosion!
No Catching Crabs on Sunday in Maryland
In Maryland, recreational crabbing is fair game on Sundays, so feel free to grab your nets and enjoy the weekend waters.
But if you’re a commercial crabber, Sundays are mostly off-limits. Maryland wants those crabs to get a little break from the pros.
There are some exceptions—like holidays—but for the most part, Sunday crabbing is about fun, not business. So, kick back and enjoy the catch!
No Eating Snakes in Kansas
Eating snakes in Kansas isn’t illegal, but catching one to cook requires a permit. Yep, even snakes get a little paperwork here.
The rules are all about protecting snake populations and keeping nature in balance. So, Kansas snakes are safe from random backyard barbecues.
If you’re thinking of a snake dinner, make sure it’s legal. Kansas says no permit, no python on your plate—simple as that!
No Throwing Snowballs in Colorado
Some Colorado cities have outlawed snowball fights. Apparently, the winter fun occasionally got a little too aggressive for their liking.
The rule likely aims to prevent injuries and property damage caused by icy projectiles. Safety first, snow warriors!
If you’re in Colorado, stick to building snowmen. Throwing snowballs might bring frosty fun—but also legal headaches.
Parking Fees for Elephants in Florida
In Florida, if you tie your elephant to a parking meter, you’re legally required to pay the parking fee, just like for a car.
This quirky law likely dates back to the circus era, when elephants were as common as clowns in small-town parades. Practicality met pachyderms!
So, if you’re cruising with your elephant in Florida, have some spare change ready. Even the biggest rides need to follow the rules.
No Wrestling Alligators in Louisiana
Louisiana makes gator wrestling illegal. Because while wrestling humans is already questionable, taking on a swamp monster is next-level bad judgment.
This law protects alligators from harm—and people from their own overconfidence. Seriously, leave the gators alone.
So, if you’re feeling brave, try something safer. Louisiana’s bayous are for sightseeing, not SmackDowns.
No Frowning in Pocatello, Idaho
In 1948, after a particularly harsh winter, Pocatello’s residents were down in the dumps. The city responded by passing the “Smile Ordinance” to brighten everyone’s spirits.
The ordinance was a tongue-in-cheek effort to encourage positivity during rough times. It was meant more as a morale booster than an actual enforceable rule.
Today, the law still stands as a charming piece of Pocatello’s history. It’s a reminder to smile—even when the weather (or life) gets tough!
No Sharing Your Netflix Password in Tennessee
Tennessee cracked down on Netflix password sharing. Apparently, this modern law is here to stop digital freeloading and keep streaming accounts sacred.
The state takes this seriously, so think twice before letting your cousin binge on your login. The law is watching.
If you’re in Tennessee, your password is for you—and only you. Sorry, friends.
Say It Right: Arkansas Has a Pronunciation Law
In Arkansas, it’s actually illegal to mispronounce the state’s name. The law was established to ensure everyone says it “Ar-kan-saw” and not “Ar-Kansas.”
This unique rule was adopted in 1881 to preserve the state’s French and Native American heritage. It even declares the pronunciation part of Arkansas’s official identity.
While you won’t be arrested for slipping up, locals take pride in their state’s name. So, practice saying it right to avoid some serious side-eye!