Did you know in one U.S. state it’s illegal to have confetti or silly string? Or that in another state you can’t honk your horn near a sandwich shop!?
Politicians like to pass a lot of laws – and rarely do old laws on the books get a second look.
From making it illegal to sit on a public sidewalk, to being charged with a felony for cutting down a cactus – check out some of the wildest laws in the United States that are still on the books.
No Silly String Or Confetti Allowed
Especially during special occasions – who doesn’t love to spray silly string or throw confetti in the air to celebrate!
But what’s a common practice in most cities is illegal in Mobile, Alabama.
Yep – don’t even think about throwing confetti or spraying silly string.
The actual law says:
Sec. 39-15. – “Spray string,” “snap pops,” or similar matter or substances thereto prohibited.
It shall be unlawful and an offense against the city for any person to have in his/her possession, keep, store, use, manufacture, sell, offer for sale, give away or handle any “spray string,” “snap pops,” or other matter or substances similar thereto, within the city within its police jurisdiction.
(Ord. No. 39-002, § 1, 1-4-94)
Yikes!
I think Mobile, Alabama, needs to lighten up!
Don’t Sit Down
In Reno, Nevada – it’s illegal to sit on a public sidewalk.
Reno Gazette Journal reported:
“Reno Municipal Code says, “No person shall sit or lie down upon a public sidewalk, or upon a blanket, chair, stool or any other object placed upon a public sidewalk in the Downtown Reno Regional Center.”
The ordinance says Reno’s sidewalks are prone to congestion. People sitting on the sidewalk clog the already congested walkways, and that “contributes to undermining the essential economic vitality of this area,” the ordinance says.”
Of course, there are exceptions for special city events and medical emergencies.
But if you thought about having a sporadic city picnic, or even taking a rest with your group – you better find a bench or somewhere else to sit!
Be Careful Where You Honk Your Horn
If a driver is irritating you and you want to honk your car horn – make sure it’s not near a sandwich shop!
In Little Rock, Arkansas, it’s considered illegal to honk the horn after 9pm if you’re around a place where cold drinks and sandwiches are served.
The actual law says:
Sec. 18-54. – Sounding of horns at sandwich shops.
No person shall sound the horn on a vehicle at any place where cold drinks or sandwiches are served after 9:00 p.m.
(Code 1961, § 25-74)
This law was likely created back when curbside food services were delivered via a “honk”, and it’s doubtful this law is still enforceable – nevertheless, it’s still on the books!
Think Twice Before Cutting Down A Cactus
The cactuses in Arizona are beautiful – and many travelers might try and cut one down as a souvenir (it’s happened) – or even illegally try to sell them elsewhere.
But in Arizona, it’s illegal to cut down a cactus… even on personal land you own.
And no – we’re not talking about a slap on the wrist and a $100 fine.
If you’re busted – it’s a felony that could land you up to 25 years in prison.
Fox News reported:
“Ray O’Neil, chief ranger at Saguaro National Park, told Fox News that “it’s illegal in Arizona to dig up cactus anywhere unless you have a permit.”
Cutting down a cactus, like Arizona’s iconic saguaro, is a crime punishable with up to 25 years in prison and a hefty fine. A permit is required to cut a saguaro down even if it’s on private property.”
Wow!
Arizona is serious about protecting their cactuses – so just snap a picture and call it a day.
If you thought these laws in the United States were nuts – stay tuned for Part 2 where we’ll tell ya about the craziest laws from all around the world.
Which of these laws surprised you the most?
Do you have any dated laws on the books in your hometown?
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(h/t Proud American Traveler)