Find a Job You Really Want In
While many laws serve practical purposes—like prohibiting hit-and-runs or burglary—there are also some that are so bizarre they defy belief. These strange regulations often reflect historical contexts or local quirks. To illustrate just how peculiar the legal landscape can be in the United States, we’ve compiled a list of 15 of the oddest laws from across the nation.
America’s 15 Oddest Laws
-
Sending a surprise pizza delivery is illegal in Louisiana.
While a surprise pizza delivery may seem like a delightful gift, it’s actually prohibited in Louisiana. The state has made it illegal to send any item to someone’s residence without their prior knowledge, even if it’s a free meal.
-
In Alaska, waking a sleeping bear for a photo is against the law.
Though it’s wise not to disturb a sleeping bear for safety reasons, Alaska has legally prohibited this action. We can all agree it’s better to admire these impressive creatures from a distance.
-
Stink bombs are banned in Alabama.
Made from ammonium sulfide, stink or funk bombs emit a foul odor reminiscent of rotten eggs. Although often used as harmless pranks, they can also be employed in riot control. Whatever your plans, don’t let one off in Alabama or you could face legal consequences.
-
Allowing your donkey to sleep in a bathtub is illegal in Arizona.
This peculiar law has a historical background. It originated in 1924 when a merchant allowed his donkey to sleep in a bathtub, which subsequently floated away during a flood. After a community effort to rescue the donkey, the state decided to enact this law.
-
Crying on the witness stand is unlawful in Los Angeles.
While courtroom dramas may depict emotional witnesses, shedding tears while testifying in Los Angeles is technically against the law.
-
Billboards are banned in Hawaii, Alaska, Maine, and Vermont.
These four states, known for their breathtaking natural landscapes, have collectively prohibited billboards to preserve their scenic beauty. In Hawaii, billboards have been illegal since 1927, with only a handful of exceptions.
-
In Kentucky, public officials must swear they have never participated in a duel.
While dueling may seem like a relic of the past, Kentucky requires its lawyers, legislators, and public officers to take an oath affirming they’ve never engaged in such activities since the law was enacted in 1849.
-
Throwing stones is illegal in the District of Columbia.
In the District of Columbia, tossing any stone or projectile can lead to fines of up to $500.
-
Spiteful gossip is against the law in Indiana.
While gossiping is a common social activity, in Indiana, it could potentially lead to criminal charges if you’re caught speaking ill behind someone’s back.
-
Fortune telling is illegal in Baltimore, Maryland.
Despite being seen as a fun pastime, fortune telling is a crime in Baltimore, punishable by a fine of $500 or a year in jail.
-
Scaring pigeons is prohibited in Massachusetts.
In Massachusetts, it’s against the law to frighten or kill pigeons, with penalties including imprisonment for up to a month or a $20 fine.
-
It’s illegal to sleep in a cheese factory in South Dakota.
This bizarre law leaves many wondering about its origins. While the exact story may have faded into obscurity, the regulation remains as a curious rule within the dairy industry.
-
In Missouri, it’s illegal for four or more unrelated women to rent a house together.
This law, known as the ‘Brothel Law,’ was enacted to combat perceived illicit activities, making it illegal for more than four unrelated women to share a residence in Missouri.
-
In New York, throwing a ball at someone’s head is illegal.
While throwing a ball for fun may seem innocent, in New York, it’s against the law. This regulation originally protected carnival workers from harassment.
-
Running out of gas is illegal in Youngstown, Ohio.
In Youngstown, motorists can receive a misdemeanor ticket for depleting their fuel supply, adding an extra layer of stress to an already inconvenient situation.
References:
-
https://law.justia.com/codes/louisiana/2013/code-revisedstatutes/title-14/rs-14-68.6/
-
https://forestgrove.pgusd.org/documents/Computer-Lab/Strange-State-Laws.pdf
-
http://www.phoenixarizonacriminallawyer.com/criminal-attorney/arizona-criminal-law/the-stories-behind-arizonas-weirdest-laws/#:~:text=Law%20%234%3A%20donkeys,reasons%2C%20we%E2%80%99re%20sure.
-
https://www.losangelesduilawyer.org/los-angeles-dui-info/7-laws-you-didnt-know-you-were-breaking/
-
https://ilsr.org/rule/billboard-bans-and-controls/#:~:text=Four%20states%20currently%20ban%20billboards,them%20in%20the%20long%20run.
-
https://code.dccouncil.us/us/dc/council/code/sections/22-1309.html
-
https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartIV/TitleI/Chapter266/Section132
-
4.)Brothel Law says that it is illegal for four or more unrelated women to rent an apartment/house together.
-
https://www.the-sun.com/news/2864992/driving-ticket-fined-hundreds-running-out-fuel/
Author
Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.
