Ever wonder if it’s legal to eat an orange in your bathtub? Believe it or not, some places have laws that are so strange, they’ll make you scratch your head and wonder, “Who thought this was a good idea?” From banning silly walks to making it illegal to die in certain towns, the world is full of bizarre rules that somehow made it onto the books.
No orange-eating in the bathtub (California)
In California, it’s illegal to eat an orange in your bathtub. This weird law supposedly came about because people were worried about clogged drains from orange peels. It’s hard to imagine anyone actually enforcing this rule. Still, if you’re in California and craving citrus during bath time, you might want to stick to drinking orange juice instead!
No sleeping on top of a refrigerator outdoors (Pennsylvania)
Pennsylvania has a law that makes it illegal to sleep on top of a refrigerator outside. It’s unclear why anyone would want to do this, but maybe lawmakers were worried about sleepwalkers getting into odd situations. Whatever the reason, outdoor fridge naps are off-limits in the Keystone State.
No silly walks on public sidewalks (Eureka, California)
Eureka, California, takes its sidewalk etiquette seriously. They have a law against “silly” walks on public walkways. Fans of Monty Python’s Ministry of Silly Walks sketch might be disappointed. If you’re in Eureka, make sure your stroll looks normal, or you could be breaking the law!
Illegal to die in Longyearbyen, Norway
In the town of Longyearbyen, Norway, it’s technically illegal to die. This isn’t about punishing people for dying, of course. The law exists because the town’s permafrost makes it impossible for bodies to decompose properly. If you’re seriously ill in Longyearbyen, you’ll be flown to the mainland.
No feeding pigeons in Venice, Italy
Venice has banned feeding pigeons in St. Mark’s Square. The city was spending a fortune cleaning up after these birds, and feeding them is now punishable with a fine. So, if you visit Venice, resist the urge to share your snacks with the local feathered residents.
Illegal to own just one guinea pig in Switzerland
In Switzerland, it’s against the law to own just one guinea pig. These animals are social creatures that get lonely easily. Swiss animal rights laws require guinea pig owners to have at least two. It’s a weird law, but it’s actually pretty sweet when you think about it.
No chewing gum in Singapore
Singapore has famously strict rules, including a ban on chewing gum. This law was introduced to keep the city clean and prevent gum from gumming up public transit doors. You can get gum with a prescription, but otherwise, leave your bubble-blowing habits at home when visiting Singapore.
Illegal to run out of gas on the Autobahn (Germany)
On Germany’s famous Autobahn highway, it’s against the law to run out of gas. The reasoning is that it’s dangerous to stop on such a fast-moving road. If you do run dry, you could face a fine. So if you’re driving on the Autobahn, keep a close eye on that fuel gauge!
No frowning in Milan, Italy
In Milan, Italy, there’s an old law that says you must smile at all times in public. The only exceptions are funerals and hospital visits. While it’s not strictly enforced today, it’s a reminder that the Italians take their cheerful reputation seriously!
Illegal to build sandcastles in Eraclea, Italy
The seaside town of Eraclea, Italy, has banned building sandcastles on the beach. Town officials say the structures could get in the way of emergency vehicles. It seems a bit extreme, but if you’re visiting Eraclea, you’ll have to find other ways to entertain yourself at the beach.
No dancing after midnight in Japan
In Japan, there used to be a law banning dancing in public venues after midnight. This odd rule was finally changed in 2015, but some restrictions still exist. The law was originally created to crack down on prostitution in dance halls after World War II.
Illegal to die in parliament (United Kingdom)
In the UK, it’s supposedly illegal to die in parliament. This weird law is often cited, though it’s not clear if it’s actually true. The idea was that anyone who died there would be entitled to a state funeral. True or not, it’s probably best to avoid kicking the bucket while visiting Big Ben.
No wearing high heels to ancient sites (Greece)
Greece has banned wearing high heels at ancient sites like the Acropolis. This law is actually pretty sensible – stilettos can damage the old stones. So if you’re planning to visit Greek ruins, pack some comfy flats instead.
Illegal to name a pig Napoleon (France)
In France, it used to be illegal to name a pig Napoleon. This law was meant to protect the emperor’s honor. While it’s not clear if this rule is still enforced, it might be safer to choose a different name for your French piglet.
No taking lions to the movies (Maryland, USA)
In Maryland, it’s illegal to take a lion to the movies. This law probably made sense when circuses were more common, but it seems pretty silly now. Still, if you happen to have a pet lion in Maryland, you’ll have to leave it at home on movie night.
Illegal to wear a fake mustache in church (Alabama, USA)
Alabama has a law that makes it illegal to wear a fake mustache that causes laughter in church. It’s hard to imagine this law being enforced, but it’s on the books. So if you’re attending church in Alabama, leave your funny fake facial hair at home.
No riding a cow while drunk (Scotland)
In Scotland, it’s against the law to be drunk while in charge of a cow. This odd rule is part of the Licensing Act of 1872, which also bans being drunk while in charge of a horse or steam engine. It’s probably good advice regardless of the law!
Illegal to walk your chicken after 10 PM (Quitman, Georgia, USA)
In the town of Quitman, Georgia, it’s illegal to walk your chicken after 10 PM. Why this specific animal at this specific time? Nobody really knows. But if you’re in Quitman and need to take your chicken for a late-night stroll, you might want to think twice.
No eating mince pies on Christmas Day (England)
In England, there’s an old law that bans eating mince pies on Christmas Day. This weird rule dates back to the 17th century when Oliver Cromwell banned Christmas celebrations. While it’s not enforced today, it’s still technically on the books.
Illegal to wear a suit of armor in parliament (UK)
In the UK, it’s illegal to enter parliament wearing a suit of armor. This law dates back to 1313 and was probably meant to prevent armed rebellions. It’s not a common problem these days, but it’s still technically illegal. So leave your knight costume at home when visiting parliament!
No whistling on Sundays (Salt Lake City, Utah, USA)
In Salt Lake City, Utah, it used to be illegal to whistle on Sundays. This odd law was part of an effort to keep the Sabbath day quiet and peaceful. While it’s no longer enforced, it’s a reminder of how strange some old laws can be. Nowadays, you’re free to whistle any day of the week in Salt Lake City!
17 Plants In Your Garden That Can Probably Kill You
17 Plants In Your Garden That Can Probably Kill You
15 Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers
15 Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers
15 Countries Where Houses Are Sold for a Song
