Every country has its share of laws that might raise an eyebrow, but some rules are so obscure they seem to belong to a bizarre alternate reality. From quirky state regulations to international oddities, these hidden laws might make you rethink what you thought you knew about legality.
1. No Cheating at Bingo in North Carolina
If you’re playing bingo in North Carolina, don’t even think about cheating—it’s a felony. The state takes its bingo games seriously, and attempting to rig a game could land you in hot water. To make things even more specific, bingo sessions are limited to five hours, and games must be for charity, not personal profit.
2. No Sending Surprise Pizzas in Louisiana
Imagine your friend gets a pizza delivery they didn’t order—funny, right? Not in Louisiana. It’s illegal to send someone a surprise pizza (or any food delivery) without their consent. This is categorized as harassment and could result in a fine of up to $500.
3. Don’t Put a Fake Mustache on a Horse in Alabama
Yes, you read that correctly. In Alabama, it’s illegal to put a fake mustache on a horse with the intent to cause laughter in public. While it’s unclear how this law came about, it shows just how specific local regulations can be.
4. Connecticut’s Pickle Law
Connecticut once had a law stipulating that a pickle is only legally a pickle if it bounces. This bizarre regulation came about in 1948 after two men were fined for selling pickles that failed the bounce test. The law was meant to ensure quality control, though it’s rarely enforced today.
5. Federal Ban on Mailing Potatoes
The U.S. Postal Service has strict rules, and one of the lesser-known federal laws bans the mailing of unstamped potatoes. Unless they’re properly packaged, your spuds could be seized. This rule exists to prevent agricultural pests from spreading across state lines.
6. No Hunting Camels in Arizona
Back in the 19th century, camels were introduced to the American Southwest as part of an Army experiment. When the project was abandoned, the camels were released into the wild. Arizona law still prohibits hunting camels, even though they no longer roam the state.
7. New Jersey’s Bulletproof Vest Law
In New Jersey, it’s illegal to wear a bulletproof vest while committing or attempting to commit a crime. This strange addendum makes criminals easier to apprehend and prosecute, ensuring they can’t stack the odds in their favor during illegal activities.
8. Missouri’s Haircut Law for Minors
In Missouri, giving a minor under the age of 18 a haircut without parental consent is technically illegal. While this law is rarely enforced, it underscores how seemingly trivial actions can be codified into law.
9. Minnesota’s Law Against Greased Pigs
In Minnesota, it’s illegal to host a greased pig contest or turkey scrambles. This unusual rule is part of animal cruelty laws aimed at preventing unnecessary stress and harm to animals used for entertainment purposes.
10. No Cursing While Driving in Maryland
If you’re driving through Rockville, Maryland, keep your vocabulary clean. Local law prohibits swearing in public, which includes while driving. A single curse word could technically land you a fine if overheard by a police officer.
And Around the World: 5 International Oddities
- No High Heels in Greece
In historical sites like the Acropolis, wearing high heels is illegal. Authorities say the narrow heels damage the ancient stone and create unnecessary wear on these priceless landmarks. - Chewing Gum Ban in Singapore
Singapore has banned the sale of chewing gum since 1992. The law was enacted to keep the city clean and prevent gum from clogging public transportation systems. - No Winnie the Pooh in Poland
In certain playgrounds in Poland, Winnie the Pooh is banned because he doesn’t wear pants. Authorities argued that his lack of attire was inappropriate for children. - License to Watch TV in the UK
In the United Kingdom, watching live television or streaming BBC iPlayer requires a TV license. Failure to pay can result in hefty fines, and inspectors are known to knock on doors to enforce this rule. - No Flushing After 10 PM in Switzerland
In some apartment buildings in Switzerland, flushing the toilet after 10 PM is prohibited. The law is meant to prevent noise pollution and maintain peace for neighbors.
Laws like these remind us that legislation isn’t always logical or practical. While some of these rules may sound absurd, they often reflect the culture, history, or quirks of the societies they govern. Still, they serve as a reminder to always check the local laws—because you never know when an unexpected rule might trip you up.
