25 Oddball Laws in the USA That Still Exist

Laws can be divisive, yet must be obeyed to avoid penalties. The US has many unique and puzzling laws. Here are 25 such odd laws Americans must follow, no matter their personal views.

Don’t Dress as a Member of the Clergy

Alabama law prohibits non-clergy from dressing like priests or nuns. Violators face up to $500 fine or a year in jail. See Alabama Code 13A-14-4.

No Horn-beeping After 9 pm

In Little Rock, Arkansas, honking at establishments serving cold drinks or sandwiches after 9pm is against the law (Code 1961, § 25-74).

Can’t Eat Every Frog

"Article 2 of California’s Fish and Game Code" allows unlimited live frogs in frog-jumping contests. Dead frogs can't be consumed or used; they must be destroyed.

Upholstery Crime

In Colorado, it's illegal to keep upholstered furniture outside unless it's specifically made for outdoor use, as per "General Offenses" 5-4-16.

No Whispering in place of Worship

In Rohoboth Beach, even talking or whispering is a criminal offense at a place of worship in Delaware.  In fact, you cannot do this within within 300 feet of a church. 

Don’t Feed the Alligators

Under the ‘Wildlife’ clause of a Florida code, nobody is legally allowed to intentionally feed a wild American alligator. Nor can they feed an American crocodile.  

No Zebra Crossing for Chickens

According to Section 8-1 of Georgia law, it's illegal for chickens and other domestic fowl to run free on city streets or be on another's property without consent.

Say ‘No’ to Billboards

Under Hawaiian law §445-112, outdoor advertising, like billboards, is forbidden under special circumstances. Billboards are allowed on a property that’s selling the item. 

White or Red Cane

In Idaho, partially or fully blind people can use red or white canes. Partially sighted ones can use a white cane tipped with red. No other can use them (18-5810).

Can’t Catch Fish with Bare Hands

In Indiana, catching fish with bare hands, a net, or an explosive is illegal; laws ban weirs, electric current, dynamite, firearms, or any fish-weakening substances.

Don’t Use Fake Butter

Iowa law restricts advertising of imitation butter, prohibiting the usage of terms 'butter', 'dairy', and others.

No Playgrounds Over 14

Wichita, Kansas, protects its children’s rights to a playground in a peculiar way. Nobody over 14 can use a children’s playground in the city unless a parent or a guardian. 

Surprise Pizza in Louisiana

In Louisiana, sending surprise pizza is considered harassment. Lawbreakers are fined $500.

Never Gamble at the Airport

If you’re in Biddeford, Maine, remind yourself not to gamble at the airport. If you gamble, you risk getting jailed. 

Play the National Anthem in Full

In Massachusetts, either play the full American anthem or as a separate song, else face a $100 fine.

Drinking Laws in Michigan and Minnesota

Michigan law prohibits inebriated train riding, while Minnesota law prevents charging anyone with drunkenness.

No Profanity in Mississippi

That’s the law. If you’re in Mississippi, you can’t swear. If caught swearing, you’ll be fined up to $100 or ordered to spend up to 30 days in jail

People with an STD Can’t Marry

Nebraska law prohibits residents with STDs from marrying. Attempts to change the law for undisclosed STDs at the time of marriage have failed.

Can’t Sell A Car on Sundays

New Jersey law fines up to $750 or 6 months imprisonment for selling a car on Sunday. Details here.

Dancing with a Sombrero Is Illegal

While wearing a sombrero in New Mexico is perfectly legal, things get complicated when you dance wearing one. You’ll be breaking the law immediately. 

Can’t Arrest on Sundays

Lucky for the criminals, the Ohio Revised Code ensures that no arrest can be made on a Sunday or on the 4th of July. 

Never Leave Your Car Door Open

In Oregon, leaving your car door open or incorrectly opening it is illegal and may lead to court penalties.

Soliciting Professional Employment is Illegal

Texas calls it an unlawful offense if you request someone for professional employment. You’re a felon if you solicit employment intending to get a financial benefit. 

Beer Has a Limit in Utah

In Utah, the law has set a beer purchase limit. If you buy or sell beer in a container that exceeds 2 liters, you’re a criminal in the court of law. 

Works of Art in Wyoming

Title 16 of Wyoming Statutes mandates new public buildings constructed using state funds, costing $100,000 or more, display works of art.

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