15 Crazy Laws That Still Exist in the U.S. (And Make No Sense)
Some U.S. laws are so weird that you’d think they were made up—but nope, they’re real.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
The United States has some truly bizarre laws that don’t seem to serve any purpose. From banning fake mustaches in church to making it illegal to put an ice cream cone in your back pocket, these outdated rules are still technically in effect. While most of them aren’t enforced, they offer a hilarious look at the country’s legal history.
1. No funny mustaches in church (Alabama)
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In Alabama, wearing a fake mustache in church that makes people laugh is illegal. This law was likely meant to keep church services respectful and serious, but how do you even decide which mustaches are too funny? Luckily, no one is getting arrested over facial hair.
2. No moose skydiving (Alaska)
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In Alaska, it’s illegal to push a live moose out of an airplane. It’s unclear why this needed to be made a rule, but it must have happened at some point. Dropping a moose from the sky is dangerous for the animal and the people below. If you ever find yourself in this oddly specific situation, just don’t do it.
3. Donkeys can’t sleep in bathtubs (Arizona)
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Arizona has a law that says donkeys are not allowed to sleep in bathtubs. This rule came after a flood carried away a bathtub with a donkey inside, leading to a complicated rescue. To prevent future problems, lawmakers banned bathtubs as donkey beds. If your donkey needs a nap, find a different spot.
4. Don’t cut down a cactus (Arizona)
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In Arizona, cutting down a Saguaro cactus without permission is illegal. These giant cacti can live for hundreds of years, and the state wants to protect them. If you damage or remove one, you could get fined or even jailed. Thus, if you want a cactus for your yard, better ask first.
5. Say Arkansas the right way (Arkansas)
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In Arkansas, it’s against the law to mispronounce the state’s name. The correct way to say it is “Ar-kan-saw,” not “Ar-kan-sas.” This rule was made to protect the state’s history and identity. You probably won’t get fined, but locals might correct you.
6. No driving in a housecoat (California)
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In California, there’s a strange law that says women can’t drive while wearing a housecoat. It likely comes from old-fashioned ideas about proper clothing in public. A housecoat is just a comfy robe, so it’s unclear why it was banned for driving. Either way, this rule isn’t enforced anymore.
7. Sunlight is a right (California)
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California has a law that lets people hang their clothes outside to dry. This rule was made to save energy and promote eco-friendly habits. However, some places still have rules about where clotheslines can go. While you have the right, your neighbors might not love the view.
8. No couches on porches (Colorado)
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In some areas of Colorado, it’s illegal to keep a couch on your porch. Old couches left outside can be a fire hazard, attract pests, or make the neighborhood look messy. This rule was created to keep communities clean and safe. If you want outdoor furniture, maybe get a patio set instead.
9. Pickles must bounce (Connecticut)
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In Connecticut, a pickle must bounce to be considered fresh. This rule came from a case in the 1940s when officials needed a way to test pickle quality. If a pickle doesn’t bounce, it’s not good enough to sell. The test isn’t really used today, but the law still exists.
10. No whispering in church (Delaware)
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Delaware has a law that says you can’t whisper in church. The goal was to make sure services stayed quiet and respectful. But if this law were enforced, many people would be in trouble. Realistically, no one is getting fined for a hushed conversation.
11. Pull up your pants (Delaware)
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In Lewes, Delaware, wearing sagging pants below the waist is illegal. The law was made to encourage modesty and keep the town looking a certain way. Some people support it, while others think it limits personal freedom. Either way, good luck getting teenagers to follow this rule.
12. No parachuting for single women on Sundays (Florida)
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An old Florida law says unmarried women can’t go parachuting on Sundays. It’s unclear why this was ever a concern, but it may have been about keeping Sundays quiet. The law isn’t taken seriously today, but it’s still officially on the books. Honestly, in Florida, this is far from the weirdest thing happening on a Sunday.
13. No ice cream in back pockets (Georgia)
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In Georgia, it’s illegal to put an ice cream cone in your back pocket. This law was made to stop horse thieves from using the trick to lure away other people’s horses. While stealing horses this way isn’t a problem anymore, the rule still exists. If you run out of hands, find another place for your cone.
14. No coins in your ears (Hawaii)
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Hawaii has a law that says you can’t put coins in your ears. This rule was likely made to stop people from losing or damaging money. While it’s unclear how often this actually happens, the law is still there. If you are planning to store spare change in your ears, just don’t.
15. No merry-go-rounds on Sundays (Idaho)
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In Idaho, an old law says you can’t ride a merry-go-round on Sundays. This rule was part of a set of laws meant to keep Sundays reserved for rest and religious activities. Of course, these rules aren’t enforced today. Technically, if you ride a carousel this Sunday, you’re breaking the law.