Let's take a look at some of these weird laws from around the world to know about how unusual they are: 1. 29. Some of these animals are polar bears, musk oxen, sea eagles, reindeers, humpback whales and walruses. Anyone outside those positions is guilty of a third-degree felony, according to the Utah State Legislature. Unfortunately, when a local dam broke, the house flooded, and the bathtub floated away, donkey and all. Greenland was named as Greenland by Vikings who discovered this country in the 10th century. In Thailand it is illegal to step on money. Why North Carolina is so serious about their bingo games, we havent a clue. 3. Final verdict: Heres yet another weird law that we wish was a joke. Final verdict: This weird law sounds like something made up by a fed-up best friend.
In Tennessee it is legal to carry a loaded firearm into a bar. This crazy law in Georgia was passed in jest, but it's still on the books. 44. In Virginia, it is illegal for a man to kick a woman out of bed. Final verdict: Don't go to Yamhill to get your fortune told. It is the ideal time for tourists to travel during this month as they do not have to risk being affected by temperatures below freezing point. That's why you need to know about some of the weirdest laws that you might break completely by accident. But not names. No Public Feather Dusting. However, she must kill him with her bare hands. If you're overheard dropping a four-letter word on the street, it's a misdemeanor worth a $100 fine. Local officials decided that bouncy pickles were fresher than those that just flopped onto the ground when dropped, and so the law was born. It states: Use or wearing a body vest while engaged in the commission of, or an attempt to commit, or flight after committing or attempting to commit a crime of the first degree is a crime of the second degree. Because I care, I went deep into the Gettysburg Times archives and . What kind of nut eats fried chicken with a knife and fork? There's a right and a wrong way to eat fried chicken. 10. Final verdict: And it's illegal to honk in front of any sandwich shop, not just a Subway chain restaurant. 5. So it is somewhat ironic that Alaska passed a law banning people from getting drunk in bars. For example, some places have outlawed miniskirts, low-cut jeans, and tops that show too much cleavage. To prevent any old Joe from masquerading as one, though, Massachusetts requires fortune-tellers to live in the state for a minimum of a year before applying for a license. Its nothing like passing a driving test, but at least it takes some work before a psychic can start selling predictions. Dirty tires that leave a trail of mud on the street are considered a public nuisance. Below are 51 absurdly ridiculous laws to keep in mind next time you travel to Europe. In Turin, Italy, dog owners must take their dogs on a walk at least three times a day. This weird Nevada law is founded on logic - although that might not seem apparent at first. Weird laws in the world's northernmost town: no funerals allowed, and no cats please! Declaring their intention to crack down hard on this sort of behavior, the authorities said, It sends a clear message to all licensees. 22. Ancient stone camels in Saudi Arabia older than Archeologists discover enigmatic ancient site near Prague. The original law prohibited "idiots" as well as "insane persons convicted of a felonious or infamous crime" from voting, but a 2010 amendment reversed the ban. Sadly, despite the law's prevalence among weird-law lists, the law itself is just a myth. It is situated on the Svalbard Islands on the north of the Scandinavian country, and the islands bleak scenery is contrasted only by the colorful homes and edifices of the local Longyearbyen people. On a great big beach. on Weird laws in the worlds northernmost town: no funerals allowed, and no cats please! According to the Wisconsin State Legislature, non-tasty cheese is technically punishable by law. There's a myth floating around on the Internet that there's a German law which forbids the hanging of laundry on Sundays. This is one weird law we're very thankful for. But perhaps one of the strangest laws in Italy is in Eraclea, near Venice, where it is forbidden to build sandcastles on the beach. However, you can swap out the trough for a wastebasket if the swine are raised for your own consumption, according to Arizona State Legislature. These games require a license from the Kansspelcommissie or no-one wins any financial gain. Locals are also encouraged to take a firearm with themselves, particularly if they move away from the settlement. 23. It got to the point that it became a massive traffic jam and an ongoing driving hazard, so the town forbade parking there at all. In Samoa it is illegal to forget your wife's birthday. Final verdict: We couldnt figure out when this law was first enacted, but it reportedly hasnt been updated in over 30 years. ), On the whole, it seems that the German government would like parents to use properly spelled, good old-fashioned names. In Victoria, B.C., it's illegal for a bagpiper to play at the same time as another street performer. At Far & Wide, we try to be law-abiding citizens. Final verdict: In 2012, Illinois decided it was OK for culinary students to sample alcoholic beverages as part of their education, as long as they spit it out instead of actually drinking it. No large wild populations of sick snakes, lizards, or turtles ever came to be, so perhaps the ban is working (or was never needed in the first place). Greenlandic became the sole official language of Greenland at the historic ceremony . Seems unfair to the little critters, but they do have an annoying habit of going through the trash. Below are a few samples of strange laws from South America: "In Bolivia, it is illegal for women to have more than one glass of wine in a bar or restaurant." "It is illegal to have sex with an idiot in . Why would there be that much honking happening at 9 p.m.? Interracial marriage was still illegal in Alabama in 2000. That's why you need to know about some of the weirdest laws that you might break completely by accident. Though most of these laws sound incredibly dumb now, once they've had, or still does have, a real pretense. That's 75-plus salamanders, according to fair market value. Today it is a heritage site, photo credit. near and around Sacramento; NO smoking outside or on the street! Considering Kahlua alcoholic chocolates are around 4%, we can assume they won't be hitting the shelves any time soon. Not So Crazy Eboli is a small town in Italy, and kissing in a moving vehicle is banned here. In Oklahoma,"every person guilty of secretly loitering about any building, with intent to overhear discourse therein, and to repeat or publish the same to vex, annoy, or injure others, is guilty of a misdemeanor.". Kissing is an incredible experience and the most natural way to show affection. Its considered harassment, as it should be. In North Carolina couples must have sex in the missionary position and with the curtains pulled. On the other hand, shorts might have been worn anywhere. It is not clear why this ever became a law or a rumoured law in the first place. Stealing is always illegal, but stealing crawfish can result in prison time less than 6 months if you steal less than $500 of crawfish or up to 10 years if you steal over $1,500 worth. The weirdest laws on the planet: Its a crime to Prague history: There was another bridge before Charles Bridge, Ancient stone camels in Saudi Arabia older than Pyramids. There is a law in South Carolina called the no mock proposal law, which states that anybody above the age of 16-years-old is not allowed to perform a proposal if they do not mean it. (1) It is illegal to pretend to practice witchcraft in Canada. According to the Oregon State Legislature, you can't throw it from the vehicle either. And it seems every state has at least a few of them. 2010 The Thought & Expression Company, LLC. Skamania County, Washington, was the first county to draft the law in 1964 which states that "any . The material carries into the clouds and stimulates precipitation, which creates a fresh sheet of powder for skiers. These are the weirdest U.S. laws in cities and states across the country. It joined the European Community (now the EU) with Denmark in 1973 but withdrew in 1985 over a . Nevertheless, the Chinese government is determined to participate in the process of choosing the next Dalai Lama and thus in just how he intends to help humanity. Married New Yorkers cannot get divorced on grounds of irreconcilable differences unless both marriage partners agree on those grounds. Cradle of aviation: US has the worlds first Soviet Architecture: concrete panel and brick Khrushchyovkas, Postcards from 19th-century illustrators depicting the future. Apparently, they cause an obstruction.[6]. Part of the problem is the permafrost which makes it nearly impossible to properly dig graves, and the frost itself will push the coffins up and out of the earth. That begs the question: Who had tires so muddy that people took the issue to city hall? Writer at Thought Catalog. Final verdict: Technically, it was Wisconsins downright war against margarine that began in 1895. Don't Cut the Cactus Jumping Cactus in Arizona Source At least in Arizona, because it is illegal to do so. We're not sure why this law was ever necessary. In Britain, oddly enough it is illegal to be drunk in the pub. 11. However, according to the North Carolina State Legislature, non-profit groups can go wild. The law says that a person may assist players by playing their cards while they take a bathroom break, according to Maine State Legislature. Quit getting married. According to Arkansas's Code of Ordinances: "No person shall sound the horn on a vehicle at any place where cold drinks or sandwiches are served after 9:00 p.m.". 11. Presumably, the governor thinks its silly and should be stopped. In Florida it is illegal for a divorced or a widowed woman to skydive on a Sunday afternoon. Sounds like an amusement park ride for the donkey, but apparently the town didnt see it that way. The practical effect is more jail and fines, according to Find Law and BulletSafe. In Vermont, a wife needs the husbands permission to wear false teeth. 7. You're probably not going to get fined if you break it, but you may get a stern reminder. Where this law exists: South Berwick, Maine. They dont like that, either. 1. 51. Also, an ancient Norwegian law still exists that obliges all Norwegians to go out on expeditions to rape and plunder at least once every five years. This law was enacted to prevent people from being forced to foot the bill for food they didnt order. Below are a few samples of strange laws from Denmark: "It is legal to attempt to escape from prison." "It is against the law to eat raw bacon, when there is a full moon." "It is illegal for women to wear wigs." Show more 4 pages, Kindle Edition First published May 28, 2011 Book details & editions About the author Jeffrey Fisher 899 books7 followers Apparently, this is a slight to the great French general and emperor. We also thought to remind you ofWhittier, Alaska a town where almost all its citizens live under one roof, Tags: Longyearbyen, Norway, remote cities, this city knows, weird laws. Or, perhaps, just over the border. Consider this law a sign. 14. Employers must ensure that their employees participate in the scheme or risk fines of up to $19 million. Before you worry about the people, remember that they signed up for the match while the bears did not. 2. 9. It must also be a recognized name. 1. In Arkansas there still exists a law that was instated in the 1800s that states a husband is allowed to beat his wife, but only once a month. In Oregon, talking dirty while having sex is illegal. In 2008, a Saudi court refused an 8-year-old girl, who asked for a divorce from her 58-year-old husband. The barmaid, who supposedly had been forced to work underground after her arrest, was also observed crushing a beer can with her buttocks and hanging spoons from her nipples. Even if a person gets buried, it is another question how proper the body will decompose. Mount Washington features rare alpine plants such as Greenland sandwort, Labrador tea, alpine bearberry, dwarf cinquefoil, dwarf birch, willow, and balsam fir. The national colours of Iceland are red, white and blue. Greenland is one of the best locations in the world to view the dancing Northern lights. There, even whispering in church is considered a disturbance of worship and can result in an annoying fine. 3. This murder is canceled," said no murderer ever. Attempts to jump into the pool in shorts may lead to you being rescued by a lifeguard or hauled out by a large hook. 66. And, yes, two men were fined for having woefully floppy pickles. After the donkey was rescued, the town passed one of the weirdest laws in the country, which forbids donkeys from sleeping in bathtubs. So, what happens if you have the wrong sort of swimwear? The law is still upheld today. Im out. The worlds northernmost capital is Nuuk, and it belongs to Greenland, Whittier, Alaska a town where almost all its citizens live under one roof. The reason? Its not like it was the couches fault. In 2012, a Portage police sergeant was fired for on-the-job misconductafterallegedly cheating on his wife and furthering a relationship with a local waitress using a city-issued cellphone. According to the 1986 Salmon Act, Section 32, if he handles a salmon in a "suspicious manner," he will be subject to prosecution and a fine of up to 800. According to the Michigan State Legislature, breaking this law is punishable by a maximum sentence of four years in prison and possibly a $5,000 fine. You'd better take it as a fun read instead of a history lesson! "Dumb Laws" Across the United States It Is Prohibited To Harass Big Foot (Washington) In the US state of Washington, it is a crime punishable by either a fine or a jail term to harass big foot, Sasquatch, or any other undiscovered species. In Hartford, it's illegal to collect "rags, paper, glass, old metal, junk, cinders or other waste matter in the city" without a license, according to Municode. 15. 43. When the sun reappears after the long and dark winter months, the local people of Longyearbyen observe the Solfestuka festivity. In Milan, the only events you are not required to smile is when you're in a hospital and in the funeral. Gambling at a home poker game is illegal in Belgium. Ohioans typically know what laws dictate when they can shoot off fireworks and whether it's illegal to steal . 42. Swiss locals going about their daily lives objected to encountering walkers wearing nothing but a pair of walking boots and a smile. The laws lightened up over the years, with margarine sales remaining a criminal offense until 1967. One lighter margarine law, however, stuck around: Restaurants were forbidden to substitute margarine for butter unless a customer requested it for fear of triggering allergic reactions. Sometimes, these laws border on the seriously ridiculous, and other times they point to important cultural values that might be different than your own. 31. Greenland is one of the best locations in the world to view the dancing Northern lights. In Argentina, there is a law that states that Argentine nightclubs must play the same amount of tango music as all other forms of music combined. Its fine for them to take a bath in one, though. The law came into effect in 2008, and many teenagers were outraged and protested. 1. Even though it is a land covered mostly by sheets of ice, there are numerous interesting aspects to explore around this naturally attractive location. Final verdict: In some states, Sunday is still seen as a day of rest. 2. When it was first invented, Wisconsin banned the yellow butter substitute, thinking that it was a threat to their thriving dairy industry. Spitting is also illegal and can result in arrest. (now that's confusing) 16. State law maintains that "no person shall move uphill on any passenger tramway or use any ski slope or trail while such person's ability to do so is impaired by the consumption of alcohol or by the use of any illicit controlled substance or other drug.". 18. In Britain it is illegal to handle a salmon in suspicious circumstances. Shady psychics probably wont bother jumping through all the hoops. Three town residents must attest in writing that the animal is loose, and its owner must fail to reclaim or confine the beast after notice is given, according to Missouri State Legislature. 15 weird US laws you may be surprised to know exist. Thank you very much for listening and as always please sit back, relax, enjoy and keep safe! 48. In 2007, the Chinese government banned Buddhists from reincarnating without prior written authorization in an important move to institutionalize management of reincarnation., However, the law would allow the Chinese a say in the next reincarnation of the most important Living Buddha when the current Dalai Lama dies. For instance, in the city of Rockville (the county seat of Montgomery County), it is illegal to swear while on the highway. :) FLAG OF GREENLAND That said, some people swear by psychics and will pay top dollar for a reading from an experienced fortune-teller. Plus the cost of the pizza. Good to know. The ancient culture along with the stunning and varied wildlife is the factor that promotes tourism for this place. To carry, manufacture, sell, or handle any non-biodegradable, plastic-based confetti is unlawful, according to Municode Library. How inhumane! Have you been wondering recently how to take better care of your SO? The statute does explain why though: to avoid congestion during emergencies, like fires. Comments Off on Weird laws in the worlds northernmost town: no funerals allowed, and no cats please! 62. In Britain it is an act of treason to place a postage stamp bearing the monarchs head upside down on an envelope. Hello everybody this is Ethan welcome back to another episode of Unique Facts And Weird Laws. 21. Horse-tripping became a popular event, so much so that Oklahoma had to outlaw the practice, along with 12 other states. There is some debate over this one. Men With Moustaches Can't Kissing Women. Laws against fun are most common in centuries-old legislation. 1. 36. One common Netflix habit is illegal in Tennessee but might be hard to actually enforce on the minor level. In Florida, its illegal to fart in a public place after 6pm on a Thursday. The law applies also to trout, eels, lampreys, smelt, freshwater fish, and any other fish "specified for the purpose." It stated that no landlord could demand back money owed for booze. In 1839, lawmakers made it illegal to beat any carpet, rug, or mat on the streets of London; the law technically endures, though beating doormats is fine, as . Steven Depolo/Flickr (Be honest: Have you ever caught a mouse without a hunting license?) However, no amount of thinking can explain some of the more bizarre laws from around the world. In Rhode Island, a union can be considered invalid under the grounds that the party is deemed to be, collectively, an idiot or a lunatic. The law has withstood legal challenges since 1845 and included exceptions for parties, according to the New York Times and Find Law. Its basically a cow with toothpicks for legs. The list is quite long-:) OP JonnyM 11 | 2,620 Despite attempts to repeal the law in 2011, the margarine ban has stuck. The law is no longer enforced, of course, but back in the day, people who were deemed too unsightly for the public eye were slapped with a $25 fine over $400 in today's currency. One councillor said, The problem with that bear is it doesnt have a complete wardrobe. The bears lack of pants was an issue as it was half naked., The meeting, which was taped in secret and leaked to the media, began to get out of hand when someone mentioned that the author was over 60 and [had] cut Poohs testicles off with a razor blade because he had a problem with his identity., In the end, the council decided to go with a Polish childrens character that was fully dressed from head to toe. Just to be on the safe side.[1]. In Britain, it is illegal to carry a plank along the pavement. The city of Petrolia in Ontario has a law that limits excessive noise. In Switzerland, it is illegal to flush a toilet after 10pm. Since 1986, US authorities have had the legal right to access any 180-day old email, without a warrant. Tourists and jockeys compete to see how far their frogs can leap. In Mobile, Alabama, it is against the law to throw confetti or spray silly string. In Missouri it is illegal to drive with an uncaged bear. In Victoria, Australia, it is illegal to change a light bulb unless youre a licensed electrician. The Real Story Of This Horrifying School Will Shock You, Keep Your Girl Happy And Let The Relationship Blossom With These 10 Easy Steps, 10 most beautiful places to must visit in India, 10 Facts About Comic Books You Should Know, Historical Coincidences that will blow your mind, Top 10 Things You didnt Know About Elephants, 10 Facts About the Nintendo Game Boy Every Gamer Should Know. Final verdict: At first read, this weird law seems like it should come with a hilarious reason. Protect your cows - another one of the strange laws in Ireland. It is illegal to pass wind in public in Florida. Similarly, bars can be fined for allowing bingo. It is a step toward full independence from Danish rule. B Rosen via Flickr So far, the metabo scheme has cut obesity by 3.5 percent, which certainly seems impressive in a country with already low obesity rates. He has been a guest speaker on numerous national radio and television stations and is a five time published author. You cant even have a beer in the same room as a bingo game, even if youre not playing. Tons of people flocked to the city in search of gold, but few struck it rich. The first coal-fired power plant of Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Like most governments, the Germans were anxious to ensure that children were not bullied at school. Only male dogs and cats can be neutered. A $110 license is required for teenagers to mow lawns. That is enforcement that protects the lives of people unless someone wants to be the meal of a hungry polar bear. 49. Final verdict: This is one of the weirdest U.S. laws because its almost entirely pointless. Only in America would a donut chain require a new law like this to be written. The law applies also to trout, eels, lampreys, smelt, freshwater fish, and any other fish specified for the purpose.. Among native New Hampshire mammals are the white-tailed deer, muskrat, beaver, porcupine, and snowshoe hare. Oral sex is often considered sodomy by many states, according to the Hebrew Bible. The time depends on the region. Weird Laws What are Strange Laws? In Dubai, extramarital sex is against the law and could result in jail sentences for over a year. Jamie founded Listverse due to an insatiable desire to share fascinating, obscure, and bizarre facts. The chemicals in them can be toxic, causing nausea and irritation to the eyes and skin. Wait, I cant wear a bulletproof vest? 1. In Billings, however, you cant buy or sell a rat unless its for the purpose of feeding a reptile or bird of prey. Thus, the forms of transport available for travelling long distances are boats and air. Ain't no poking fun at this one. 32. Despite the goofy name, no one is allowed to use them in most states anymore aside from police officers. One of the by-laws for the city says, "No person shall interfere with a tree or part of a tree located on municipal property, including but not limited to attaching, affixing or placing upon in any manner any object or thing to a tree or part of a tree, and climbing the tree." 27. Final verdict: Sounds great, doesnt it? Notice of Crimes. However, according to the Sexual Offences Act, it was a crime for teens to engage in this behaviour. Few peculiarities are associated with this urban area, such as the fact that almost for a third of the year round, there isnt any sun around, because of the geographical position of the islands. And not just a salmon. And not just a salmon. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. In Britain it is illegal to operate a cow while intoxicated. In Kansas, individual counties may by resolution or petition prohibit the sale of alcohol in public places where 30% or less of their gross revenue comes from the sale of food, according to Kansas State Legislatureand TIME. Final verdict: Do you know how to tell if a pickle is legit? It's Illegal to Drag a Dead Horse Along the Street. No, a woman's hair does not legally belong to her husband in Michigan. Otherwise, it is a crime of the third degree.. The worlds northernmost capital is Nuuk, and it belongs to Greenland, while the worlds northernmost town that has more than a thousand permanent residents is Longyearbyen and it belongs to Norway. There are so many things wrong with this, but Mississippi lawmakers viewed it as an issue of morality. By law, any whale or great Sturgeon caught in the UK is the property of the Queen. A popular law passed in England prohibits people to die in the House of Parliament. According to Louisiana State Legislature, the Creole stir-fry, made with rice, meat, and veggies, may be prepared for public consumption in the open using iron pots and wood fires.