15 of the Most Unusual U.S. Laws That Still Exist Today

The summer months are filled with holiday celebrations. Unfortunately, not all of the fun and games end well. This season finds police officers on high alert in protecting the public and ensuring that all of the festivities remain safe and within the guidelines of state law.

However, it may surprise you that some U.S. laws are so strange that they are sure to cause uproars of laughter. Concentrated in the New England states and surrounding areas, we’ve compiled 15 state laws that can serve as a humorous anecdote at your next summer shindig.

CONNECTICUT

Warm up the grill, round up the burgers and throw a pickle on the patio to test its authenticity. In Connecticut, a pickle must bounce for it to be officially considered a pickle.

DELAWARE

The state of Delaware claims no official state dog. Perhaps, this indicates the value of all dog breeds. Just check their books and you will find it unlawful to sell the hair of any dog.

MAINE

Call this Pine Tree State Scrooge, if you will, but all Christmas decorations must come down before January 15 to avoid a fine.

MASSACHUSETTS

No pranks or plotting allowed. Owning an explosive golf ball in Massachusetts evokes the wrath of the law.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

While the state motto may claim, Live Free or Die, this freedom does not extend to the beach. Picking up seaweed in New Hampshire proves illegal.

NEW JERSEY

While state laws on driving under the influence of alcohol are understandably strict, New Jersey socks it to offenders. Driving drunk removes your right to ever apply for personalized plates again.

NEW YORK

Beware trick-or-treaters. In New York state, any two or more masked people gathered together gain police attention and consequence.

NORTH CAROLINA

Senior citizens need to find alternative activities in North Carolina. No Bingo game may last over five hours except at a fair.

OHIO

Keep your beer to yourself. In Ohio, the police officials pick you up for intoxicating fish with alcohol.

PENNSYLVANIA

A fortune teller may foretell secrets, but do not return the favor in Pennsylvania. Sharing with a medium the location of buried treasure equals criminal activity in the Quaker State.

RHODE ISLAND

As if a bouncing pickle test seemed odd enough, Rhode Island takes things to a new level. Throwing pickle juice on a trolley lands you in trouble with the law.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Leave the retro gaming to those old enough to handle its intensity. Pinball machines remain off limits to those under 18 years of age in South Carolina.

VERMONT

The hermit thrush claims the spot of top bird in Virginia. However, all species gain a bit of honor in this state as shooting any bird simply for amusement is considered “fowl” play, according to the law.

VIRGINIA

All wildlife take a day of rest from hunters on Sunday in Virginia. All animals, that is, except raccoons. In this state, the raccoon remains fair game until 2:00 a.m.

WEST VIRGINIA

While residents can gain a permit to conceal and carry, be sure to keep it in check if you hold political aspirations in West Virginia. No person ever involved in a duel may run for public office.

We hope you’ve enjoyed these whacky state restrictions throughout New England and its surrounding states. Just remember that any and all laws should be abided by and respected not only during summer celebrations but all year long.

Before embarking on any short or long distance driving adventure this summer, make sure to review and update your automobile insurance policy. Looking for a change in your current policy? Get a free auto insurance quote from Northeast Insurance Agency by clicking here.