Crazy & Weird Laws That Still Exist

Michelle Wilson - August 19, 2022

Every country seems different, including the various laws that govern the people within the borders. Occasionally, these laws teeter on a bit obscure, while others are weird laws. Although these situations may seem seriously ridiculous, other times, it isn’t always a weird law but something culturally significant.

Here are a few crazy laws from around the world that you may not believe. Although some aren’t currently enforced, it’s always a good idea to check into weird laws.

It’s Illegal to Chew Gum in Singapore

Occasionally, everyone loses out when someone breaks the rules. It seems Singapore is one of those situations. After vandals used chewing gum to destroy the Mass Rapid Transit System and Housing and Development Board, costing $150,000 a year to clean. In 1992, Singapore banned all gum substances. Anyone caught importing, making, or selling gum in Singapore can get fined or receive jail time.

Running Out of Gas on the German Autobahn is Illegal

This highway is notorious for holding dynamic speed limits, with some motorists hitting above 100 miles an hour. Speed demons and car enthusiasts love the Autobahn, but running out of gas could have you facing a considerable fine. Unfortunately, walking to a gas station will get you another fine. Germans believe you have the power and ability to keep your car properly fueled up, so running out of gas is entirely your fault.

Hiking Naked in Switzerland is Illegal

After German and Swiss travelers made naked hiking a thing in Switzerland decades ago, Swiss officials informed folks that indecency laws still exist. This weird law means anyone caught in the woods naked will face a minimum of $100 fine.

Feeding Pigeons in Venice, Italy, is Illegal

As thousands of pigeons descend on Saint Mark’s square and Venice, often lured by tourists willing to capture photos, lawmakers officially made it illegal to feed the annoying fowl in 2008. The cleanup from the birds costs each citizen 275 euros annually, making it a costly venture. If caught feeding the pigeons, tourists could face fines of up to 700 euros.

Wearing High Heels to the Acropolis is Illegal

If you’re heading on a trip to Greece, wear the right shoes. In 2009, the country banned high heels at the Acropolis, meaning no stilettos at the Parthenon. The Greeks put this ban in place to protect the ruins from damage caused by the sharp shoes. As the ruins are nearly 2,500 years old, being respectful is essential.

 It’s Illegal to Wear Winnie the Pooh in Poland

Although this wonderful bear has won the hearts of many, it seems that Poland disagrees with the risqué approach to his style. Poland banned Winnie the Pooh around schools and playgrounds, finding the character inappropriate around impressionable children. It’s best to leave all Winnie the Pooh apparel at home if you’re planning to visit.

All Men Must Wear Speedos on Beaches in France

It’s French law that men mustn’t wear loose-fitting swim trunks at swimming pools, beaches, or other places where a swimsuit is required. The law wasn’t for safety but for hygiene. Officials assumed that a speedo was more hygienic than a pair of shorts a man could have been wearing all day. This law includes all clothing people could wear throughout the day, so t-shirts are frowned upon too.

British Parliament Forbids Wearing a Suit of Armor

An ancient law currently remains in effect from 1313 that prohibits anyone from wearing a suit of armor during any parliament visit in London. Although the Brits could revoke the law, it’s a fun quirk that sets the country apart.

It’s Illegal to Ride a Cow While Drunk in Scotland

While you might be known for having a good time after a few drinks, it’s important to remember that you might get a ticket for drunk cow riding in Scotland. Technically, this 1872 crazy law demands people not be drunk while in charge of a steam engine, horse, carriage, or cow. Thankfully, a few states also have a rule prohibiting someone from having a loaded firearm while intoxicated.

It’s Illegal to Wear Camouflage in the Caribbean

Unfortunately, you’ll have to leave the Camo attire home if you’re visiting the Caribbean, as this crazy law bans anyone from wearing it on the island. This attire is prohibited in St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Barbados, Jamaica, and Barbuda. It may seem like a weird law, but only the country’s military personnel can wear camouflage.

Taking Selfies with Buddha in Sri Lanka is Illegal

Although this requirement might seem like a weird law to some, the act of taking a selfie is more about respect than anything else. To take a selfie with Buddha, you must turn your back, with is a huge sign of disrespect, punishable by imprisonment in Sri Lanka. Other disrespectful actions include taking photos of or with the statues or pointing your finger at Buddha. Although it isn’t necessarily illegal to have tattoos of Buddha, it’s highly encouraged to cover all tattoos, respect the signs, and avoid turning your back on him.

It’s Illegal to Fly a Kite in Victoria, Australia

This crazy law is meant to keep the peace in public spaces. Flying a kite in a public space should it bother another person is illegal. Likewise, playing a game in a general location is unlawful if it annoys another. While this law is formally noted in the Summary Offenses Act of 1966, it probably won’t be enforced by anyone.

Wearing a Mask in Public is Illegal in Denmark

This weird law isn’t just about masks, but any face covering in public spaces. This law includes helmets, scarves, masks, burkas, and fake beards. The controversial ban went into effect in August 2018. Officials claim the ban helps correctly identify individuals during crowded events. 

Canadian Radio Must Play Canadian Artists

It seems that Canadians are known for being patriotic. All Canadian radio stations are required, by law, to play Canadian artists at least 35 percent of the time. This law means you’ll hear at least twenty minutes of Canadian tracks during an hour of listening.

Conclusion

While these infractions may seem a bit overzealous and bizarre to some, they had an important place in our history at one time. When in doubt, always research the tourist location and carefully consider any local customs before your trip. Whether initially intended for safety or courtesy, knowing the laws and regulations of another country before visiting is critical. Remain polite and respectful, even if you don’t understand the rules you must follow. As every country is different, so are the laws governing the people.