17 U.S. Towns With Bizarre Laws You Didn’t Know Existed
Think you know the quirkiest corners of America? Think again. There are towns across the U.S. with truly strange laws that will leave you scratching your head. From the outright absurd to the oddly specific, these laws give us a glimpse into the unique character—and sometimes hilarious history—of these places. Here are 17 U.S. towns with bizarre laws you probably haven’t heard about.
Carmel, California – No High Heels Without a Permit
In this picturesque coastal town, it’s technically illegal to wear high heels over 2 inches tall unless you have a permit. The law was designed to protect the city from liability claims caused by uneven sidewalks. If you’re planning a stroll, maybe stick to flats.
Gainsville, Georgia – No Eating Fried Chicken With a Fork
In Gainsville, they take their Southern hospitality—and fried chicken—very seriously. According to an ordinance, eating fried chicken with anything other than your hands is against the law. This “finger-lickin’ rule” is said to celebrate traditional values.
Mobile, Alabama – No Confetti Allowed
Confetti is banned in Mobile because it’s considered litter and tough to clean up. Celebrating in the city? Better stick to balloons or streamers instead of tiny paper bits.
Fairbanks, Alaska – Don’t Give a Moose Beer
This Alaskan law makes it illegal to feed alcoholic beverages to a moose. Apparently, this law came into effect after a notorious incident where a tipsy moose caused chaos in town.
Discover more about weird state regulations.
Oxford, Mississippi – No Swearing in Public
If you’re in Oxford, keep your frustrations in check. Swearing in public could land you a fine. The town prioritizes decorum and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Topeka, Kansas – No Screaming in Ice Cream Parlors
Loud noises in ice cream parlors are prohibited in Topeka. Originally meant to maintain a serene environment, this law ensures your dessert experience isn’t spoiled by rowdy patrons.
Quitman, Georgia – Chickens Can’t Cross the Road
In Quitman, it’s illegal for chickens to cross the road. While funny on the surface, this ordinance was introduced to keep wandering livestock off the streets for safety reasons.
Read about the strangest old laws in America.
New York City, New York – Can’t Sell a Haunted House Without Disclosure
Selling a haunted house? By law, sellers in NYC must disclose if their property has a reputation for being haunted. It’s a spooky kind of transparency.
Bar Harbor, Maine – Don’t Park on the Sidewalk
In Bar Harbor, parking on sidewalks is explicitly forbidden. Yes, this one seems standard, but the enforcement apparently dates back to when horse-drawn carriages would block pedestrian paths.
Boulder, Colorado – No Couch Surfing Outdoors
It’s illegal to place a couch on your porch or front lawn in Boulder. The law was implemented to prevent furniture fires at rowdy college parties.
Gary, Indiana – No Movie Theaters Open on Sundays
For decades, Gary prohibited movie theaters from operating on Sundays. Although often unenforced, this law nods to the town’s historical respect for Sabbath observance.
More surprising legal oddities.
Coudersport, Pennsylvania – Fire Hydrants Can’t Be Painted
In Coudersport, painting fire hydrants is strictly prohibited. Apparently, uniformity in fire hydrant appearance is a major concern in this small town.
Eureka, Nevada – Men With Mustaches Cannot Kiss
Believe it or not, Eureka banned mustachioed men from kissing women. While this law isn’t enforced today, it was likely aimed at hygiene concerns in the past.
Waynesboro, Virginia – No Spitting on Sidewalks
If you’re in Waynesboro, keep your saliva to yourself. Spitting on sidewalks is considered both unhygienic and disrespectful, earning it a spot on the local law books.
Minneapolis, Minnesota – No Red Cars on Lake Street
Back when horse-drawn carriages transitioned to motorized cars, red vehicles were banned from Lake Street to avoid startling horses. The law technically still exists but is ignored today.
Willowdale, Oregon – Can’t Whistle Underwater
It’s hard to argue with this law’s rationale—because it’s impossible. While it’s unclear why this humorous rule exists, it remains a quirky part of the town’s history.
Check out America’s most unbelievable laws.
Nogales, Arizona – No Wearing Suspenders
In Nogales, suspenders are banned. Though rooted in old customs, the town decided belts are a more appropriate dress choice. But don’t worry—you’re unlikely to be fined for this one.
Conclusion
These bizarre laws might seem absurd today, but they tell fascinating stories about the history and culture of small towns across the U.S. Whether they’re still enforced or just quirky remnants, they’re part of the weird and wonderful fabric of America. Next time you’re traveling, keep these quirky ordinances in mind—you never know when they might come into play.
