14 Old Laws Still on the Books That Make No Sense Today
These outdated laws might sound like jokes but are still technically enforceable.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
Even in our modern world, bizarre laws from the past still linger in the legal code. From banning ice cream in your pocket to outlawing singing off-key, these strange statutes defy logic. You probably won’t get arrested for breaking them — but technically, you could.
1. It’s Illegal to Have Ice Cream in Your Back Pocket in Kentucky
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This law dates back to the days of horse theft. Clever criminals would lure horses away using ice cream in their back pockets — technically not “stealing” if the horse followed willingly.
2. In Arizona, It’s Illegal for a Donkey to Sleep in a Bathtub
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This unusual law was prompted by a 1920s incident involving a flooded ranch and a donkey in a tub. After the tub was swept miles away, rescue efforts were costly and chaotic.
3. In Florida, Unmarried Women Can’t Skydive on Sundays
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This dated regulation hails from a more conservative era. The idea was to discourage “immoral” behavior on the Sabbath. Though rarely enforced, the law technically remains in place.
4. Bingo Games in North Carolina Can’t Last Over Five Hours
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Aiming to curb excessive gambling, this law caps bingo sessions to five hours max. It’s mostly aimed at charities and senior centers hosting the games.
5. In Connecticut, a Pickle Must Bounce to Be Considered Legit
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In the 1940s, pickle fraud led to new standards. Officials decided that only pickles that bounce when dropped qualify as legal for sale.
6. Missouri Bans Drunk Elephants
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Circus elephants were once common in parades and town events. After a drunken elephant caused public mayhem in the 1800s, Missouri outlawed giving alcohol to them.
7. In Alaska, It’s Illegal to Whisper in Someone’s Ear While Moose Hunting
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This odd statute likely stems from safety concerns during hunting season. Quiet is crucial, but whispering might distract or startle hunters.
8. Oklahoma Bans Making “Ugly Faces” at Dogs
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Making rude faces at a dog in Oklahoma can get you fined or even jailed. The law’s vague wording leaves plenty of room for interpretation.
9. In California, You Can’t Ride a Bike in a Swimming Pool
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This law stems from a 1960s trend of people turning empty pools into skate and bike parks. Local governments responded with strict bans. Even if it’s dry, pool pedaling is technically illegal.
10. In Indiana, It’s Illegal to Catch a Fish with Your Bare Hands
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While “noodling” for catfish is a tradition in some states, Indiana has banned the practice. Officials deemed it dangerous for both fish and fishermen.
11. In New York, It’s Illegal to Wear a Mask in Public with Two or More People
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This old law was meant to curb masked criminal gatherings and political riots. Though there are exceptions, like Halloween and COVID, it’s still technically enforceable.
12. Georgia Outlaws Carrying Ice Cream Cones in Your Back Pocket on Sundays
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This is a variation of Kentucky’s horse-luring law — but with a Sabbath twist. Georgia’s version only applies on Sundays, suggesting a moral concern. Seems oddly specific, but it’s real. Keep your cone in hand, not in jeans.
13. In Minnesota, It’s Illegal to Cross State Lines with a Duck on Your Head
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There’s no solid reason why this law exists — but it’s in the books. Maybe it started as a prank or a local ordinance that stuck. Either way, it’s a no-go for duck hats.
14. In Texas, You Must Warn Victims 24 Hours Before Committing a Crime
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This ridiculous-sounding law allegedly gives people the legal right to defend themselves. However, it’s more urban legend than enforced law, though references still pop up in local codes.