Hilarious ways to respond and discourage them from calling back
Laws are the backbone of any society. They ensure order, protect rights, and shape how communities interact and exist around the world. But if anyone were to travel through the legal landscapes of different countries, they’ll quickly discover that some laws go far beyond logic and common sense. In many parts of the world, you’ll find rules that sound almost too absurd to be real, but these quirky regulations reflect the unique facets and histories of each place.
While some laws exist to protect architectural treasures, others dictate strict manners or safeguard animal welfare. Intrigued? Click through this gallery to discover some of the weirdest laws in place around the globe.
In the Italian city of Venice, authorities grew tired of birds outnumbering tourists and causing damage to historic monuments, and so they banned the feeding of pigeons. Don’t try playing bird whisperer in St. Mark’s Square, unless you don’t mind a hefty fine for your generosity.
In Singapore, there’s a national disdain for gum, regardless of whether you’re chewing it, selling it, or smuggling it in. The sticky mess once littered trains and streets, which led the government to banish it from existence. Only medicinal gum makes the cut for approval.
In Tibet, Buddhist monks must apply for government permission before reincarnating. The state controls the spiritual and metaphysical realm, and they require paperwork for future lives. Rebirth is bureaucratically bound, so plan your karmic journey accordingly!
Residents in Switzerland are barred from flushing toilets in apartment buildings after 10 pm, all in the name of keeping things quiet. In a case of extreme politeness, nighttime bathroom habits must be kept stealthy.
Danish parents are not allowed to name their child anything they wish. The government has a preapproved list of around 7,000 names that must be consulted. If parents want to name their baby something unique, they need to obtain special permission.
In the UK, passing away in the Houses of Parliament is legally problematic. Apparently, dying there entitles you to a state funeral. Thus, it’s outright banned, though enforcing this law might be a challenge.
If you’re a chicken in Quitman in the state of Georgia, you need a permit to cross the street. Chickens wandering freely across roads are a no-go, and this law ensures poultry knows its place and doesn’t delay traffic.
In Italy, the city of Rome cares about its goldfish, and so they have banned round bowls in the name of cruelty. The belief is that these bowls distort the fish’s vision and restrict oxygen flow.
In Milan, the law demands that you keep a smile on your face at all times, unless you’re at a funeral or visiting the hospital. Gloomy expressions are frowned upon—literally. The city wants joy to radiate through its streets, so be ready to grin, or face a fine.
Taking a selfie with your back to Buddha is considered deeply disrespectful in Sri Lanka. Such an iconic vacation snap could land someone in trouble, so tourists are invited to face the deity or skip the photo.
If you’re overtaking another vehicle on a rural road in New Zealand, you’re expected to honk your horn. The countryside chorus of car horns warns farmers, sheep, and other drivers of a vehicle’s approach. It’s safety with a sound effect, the Kiwi way.
During Thailand’s Songkran Festival in April, the world’s biggest water fight unfolds. Ironically, bringing one’s own water gun is illegal. Local authorities want to control the aquatic chaos, and celebrating with preapproved products is essential.
In the city of Mobile, Alabama, colorful confetti is not the party starter you think it is. Selling or using it is illegal due to the mess it leaves behind. Celebrations here require less messy alternatives, and preferably options that don’t impact the environment.
Bear wrestling may seem ludicrous, but South Africa saw fit to outlaw it. No man-versus-bear bouts are permitted, for the sake of both human and animal safety. If you’re dreaming of grappling with a grizzly, look elsewhere.
In certain French train stations, lovers are banned from kissing on platforms. It’s an attempt to avoid train delays caused by passionate farewells. If romance strikes, make sure to keep the smooching off the rails, or risk disrupting departures.
Anyone driving on Germany’s Autobahn must be sure to keep an eye on their fuel gauge. Running out of gas is illegal and can result in a hefty fine. The high-speed highway demands smooth flow, and breakdowns due to empty tanks aren’t just inconvenient—they’re criminal.
In Russia, authorities despise filthy cars, and having one could result in a fine. Dirty license plates are especially troublesome, and residents must keep their vehicles squeaky clean, or else they might find their road trip interrupted for a not-so-friendly car wash reminder.
In Barcelona, strolling through the streets without a shirt is banned. The city government wants to maintain a respectable image, so residents are required to cover up or head straight to the beach. Strolling in the city center half-dressed will result in a fine, regardless of how sunny it is.
In Arizona, it’s illegal to let a camel sleep in a bathtub. This bizarre law was enacted after an incident involving a tub flood and an unexpected camel rescue. Afterward, camel hygiene and water safety merged into one curious legal chapter.
Alabama took it upon itself to make blindfolded driving illegal. It might sound like a no-brainer, but, apparently, such shenanigans warranted legislation. For safety’s sake, always keep your eyes on the road, and let’s not make surprise lane changes!
In Switzerland, the law mandates that guinea pigs (which are social animals by nature) must live in pairs. Keeping a lone guinea pig is deemed cruel.
Singaporeans have a love-hate relationship with durian fruit. Known for its strong, pungent smell, the “King of Fruits” is banned from public transportation. Bring a slice on the subway, and you’ll quickly clear a carriage and also face a fine.
In Pennsylvania, it’s illegal to sleep inside a refrigerator. Safety regulations aimed to prevent accidental suffocation led to this odd rule. Napping in a chilly appliance may sound tempting on a hot day, but it’s an officially discouraged pastime.
In French public pools, swimming trunks are banned. Men are required to wear snug-fitting swim briefs or speedos. Hygiene regulations claim that loose swimwear can introduce bacteria into the pool, hence the strange law.
For decades, dancing after midnight was illegal in Japan unless the club had a special permit. The law (which was enacted to control post-war debauchery) has only recently relaxed. Still, keep an eye on local regulations if you plan to groove at night.
In the city of Gainesville, Georgia, you’re legally required to eat fried chicken with your hands. Using utensils is considered sacrilege, and the law keeps Southern dining traditions alive and well.
In Poland, Winnie-the-Pooh’s lack of pants sparked outrage and led to bans on wearing clothing with his image near playgrounds. The beloved bear’s questionable attire isn’t deemed suitable for children.
Thailand has strict rules protecting its currency, which features images of the royal family. Stepping on money, even accidentally, can be considered a serious offense. Respect for the monarchy extends to every part of the country, so tread carefully (literally) when handling cash.
In France, it’s illegal to name a pig “Napoleon.” The law is rooted in respecting the legacy of the French Emperor. Even if someone thinks it’s a fitting name for a bossy boar, the law will have none of it.
Hiking naked was once a trend in Switzerland, but local authorities intervened and made it illegal. Alpine air may be refreshing, but covering up is mandatory. The mountains may call, but only with hiking boots and appropriate attire.
Sources: (Far & Wide) (The Facts Institute) (National Geographic) (The Lawyer Portal) (Britannica) (TheCollector)
See also: What are the laws of the sea?
Strange laws from around the world
Some of these are borderline unnecessary
LIFESTYLE Legal system
Laws are the backbone of any society. They ensure order, protect rights, and shape how communities interact and exist around the world. But if anyone were to travel through the legal landscapes of different countries, they’ll quickly discover that some laws go far beyond logic and common sense. In many parts of the world, you’ll find rules that sound almost too absurd to be real, but these quirky regulations reflect the unique facets and histories of each place.
While some laws exist to protect architectural treasures, others dictate strict manners or safeguard animal welfare. Intrigued? Click through this gallery to discover some of the weirdest laws in place around the globe.