12 Bizarre Laws That Are Still in Effect Today

Laws are intended to keep things in order, but a few across the globe are so quirky they read like fiction. From prohibiting chewing gum in Singapore to banning high-fives during school time in Australia, these weird regulations show off quirky cultural mores and oddities of the past. This set of 12 true and bizarre laws gives a revealing glimpse into the surprising ways societies govern behavior—occasionally with a chuckle, occasionally with scratching-the-head rationality.

1. No Chewing Gum in Singapore

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Chewing gum in Singapore is practically banned for the sake of keeping the public clean. The importation and sale of chewing gum are forbidden since 1992, with therapeutic, dental, or nicotine gums being the only exemptions. Singapore’s success in this has made it one of the cleanest cities in the world.

2. No Camouflage Clothing in Jamaica

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In Jamaica, it is illegal for civilians to wear camouflage clothing. This is done to avoid civilians being confused with military personnel. Visitors are discouraged from carrying any camouflage clothing to adhere to local laws.

3. No High Heels at Ancient Sites in Greece

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Tourists visiting Greece’s ancient sites are not allowed to wear high heels. The government has instituted this ban to safeguard the fragile surfaces of these historical monuments from damage that could be inflicted by shoes with sharp heels. Tourists are advised to put on flat-soled shoes when visiting these archaeological sites.

4. No Public Displays of Affection in Dubai

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In Dubai, affectionate kissing and holding hands in public are frowned upon and could result in a fine or imprisonment. The United Arab Emirates has conservative culture, and visitors must be sensitive to local customs. It’s best for couples to be circumspect when in public areas.  

5. No Feeding Pigeons in Venice, Italy

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Venice has prohibited the feeding of pigeons in public areas. The action is intended to safeguard historic buildings and monuments within the city from destruction due to pigeon droppings. Offenders can be fined heavily for feeding pigeons in tourist destinations like St. Mark’s Square.

6. No Wearing of Armor in British Parliament

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A centuries-old law dated 1313 bans Members of Parliament from appearing in armor in the House of Commons. This was passed to guarantee debates were carried out without fear. Although outdated, the law has never been rescinded and is still active today.  

7. No High-Fiving in Victoria, Australia, During School Hours

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In Victoria, Australia, engaging in “high-five” gestures during school hours is illegal. This law was implemented to minimize distractions and maintain decorum within educational institutions. Students are encouraged to find alternative ways to celebrate or greet each other.

8. No Public Singing in Topeka, Kansas, at Night

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In Topeka, Kansas, singing the alphabet at night on the streets is prohibited. This law was most probably enacted to minimize nocturnal noises. Residents and guests are advised to reserve their vocal acts for indoor use during late nights.

9. No Fake Moustache Wearing in Alabama Churches

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Wearing a phony moustache to church in Alabama is prohibited if it makes people laugh. This unusual statute was probably passed to preserve solemnity in religious services. Though it is no longer enforced rigorously today, it still exists as a vestige of previous social mores.

10. No Whistling Underwater in Vermont

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Vermont has a law against whistling underwater. Whether anyone knows how this law is enforced or what the original purpose behind it was is unclear, but it joins the roster of the state’s bizarre regulations. Locals are told to keep their singing skills above the waterline.

11. No Humming on Public Streets in Hawaii After Sunset

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It is illegal to hum on public roads after dark in Hawaii. The law was probably passed to provide peace and silence at night. Tourists and residents must be aware of this law to prevent possible fines.

12. No Water Pistols on New Year’s Eve in Cambodia

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Cambodia has prohibited using water pistols during New Year’s Eve. The prohibition seeks to avoid public disturbance and maintain safety during the festive season. People are urged to find other ways to celebrate without water toys.  

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