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Laws are usually universally acceptable rules that keep us safe and organized and so that we know what to expect from others. Laws vary from country to country, reflecting the values of a certain culture, and you can understand if it differs from your own. But sometimes laws are so bizarre that you can’t help but wonder what provoked lawmakers to make the decision to approve some of the laws.

Sometimes countries don’t update very old laws that look silly in modern times, or a singular incident made them want to never experience something again, so they put a ban on it. Bored Panda collected some of the strangest, silliest, and most amusing laws from around the world. So enjoy and don’t forget to upvote the ones that surprised you the most!

#1

It's Illegal To Toss Non-Biodegradable Plastic Confetti In Mobile, Alabama

It's Illegal To Toss Non-Biodegradable Plastic Confetti In Mobile, Alabama

In the Code of Ordinance of the city Mobile in Alabama, there is a section talking about the use of confetti: “It shall be unlawful and an offense against the city for any person to have in possession, keep, store, use, manufacture, sell, offer for sale, give away or handle any non-biodegradable, plastic-based confetti, serpentine, or other substance or matters similar thereto within the city or within its police jurisdiction.”
 
Paper confetti is fine, but the law is more focused on plastic confetti which doesn’t disintegrate and ends up lying all over green areas.

Unknown Report

#2

Billboards Are Banned In Alaska, Maine, Vermont, And Hawaii

Billboards Are Banned In Alaska, Maine, Vermont, And Hawaii

There are four states in the United States that have banned billboards: Alaska, Maine, Vermont, and Hawaii, where the ban was introduced the earliest. Businesspeople understand that this actually benefit them, because billboards ruin the landscape; without them, these states maintain their scenic beauty and attract more people to visit.

Kate Trysh Report

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#3

Wearing High Heels Is Prohibited At Some Historical Sites In Greece

Wearing High Heels Is Prohibited At Some Historical Sites In Greece

In 2009, the director of Greek prehistoric and classical antiquities, Eleni Korka, said: "Female visitors must wear shoes that do not wound the monuments. These monuments have a skin that suffers and people must realize that." Stilettos can punch holes as the whole body's pressure is on them, so to minimize the wear on the monuments, the ban was introduced.

Kyri Sarantakos Report

#4

In Capri, You Must Clean Up After Your Dog; If Not, They Will Trace It With DNA

In Capri, You Must Clean Up After Your Dog; If Not, They Will Trace It With DNA

In the small island on the south side of the Gulf of Naples, Capri, there is a local law that dog owners must clean up after their dogs if they poop on the street. Unfortunately, not everyone is obeying the law and to enforce it, Mayor Lembo thought he could take advantage of another existing law requiring all dogs to have blood tests for canine leishmaniasis, and just have the DNA matched. If a person is busted for leaving a mess on the streets, they will be fined €2,000 ($2,400).

Amy Report

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RoseTheMad
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Feel like they need this everywhere, I'm sick of going out to the park and having to dodge dog s**t ffs.

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#5

It Is Against The Law To Have A Sleeping Donkey In Your Bathtub

It Is Against The Law To Have A Sleeping Donkey In Your Bathtub

In the state of Arizona, to this day, you can’t let a donkey sleep in your bathtub. The origin of the law is actually a funny story that apparently, nobody wanted to repeat itself. In 1924, a donkey found an abandoned bathtub outside its owner’s property and the animal took it as a good place to sleep. While it was sleeping, a dam near Kingman collapsed, causing a flash flood, and the napping donkey was carried by the waters. The people of the town were after the donkey to save him and after experience, considering the expense and the risks encountered by the rescuers, it was decided that donkeys should not be allowed to sleep in bathtubs.

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Martin Kaine
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

....and opposed to regular inspections of local dams. Good job, 1920's Arizona!

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#6

By Law You Have To Walk Your Dog Three Times A Day In Turin, Italy

By Law You Have To Walk Your Dog Three Times A Day In Turin, Italy

In Turin, dog owners must walk their dogs three times a day. This rule was introduced in 2006, a year after Rome issued a decree saying that dog owners must walk their dogs at least once a day. This is a way of fighting cruelty against animals. The fines can go up to $600.

Stephen Goldberg Report

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Kennedy Johnson
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What if you play all day or have a really exciting day with your do and it’s tired? Also how will they know you didn’t walk 3 times.

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#7

It's Illegal To Wrestle A Bear In South Africa

It's Illegal To Wrestle A Bear In South Africa

In South Africa, you are prohibited from wrestling a bear. Which is weird not only because who would willingly wrestle a bear, but they don’t even live there naturally.

Wikimedia Commons Report

#8

Running Out Of Fuel On The Autobahn Can Lead To A Fine

Running Out Of Fuel On The Autobahn Can Lead To A Fine

It is illegal to stop on the autobahn in Germany without a serious reason as it is dangerous. The driver is required to make sure that their vehicle is in the right condition to be used, and running out of fuel is not considered a serious enough reason to stop, so it is seen as a violation of this requirement and negligence.

jhenning Report

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Virgil Blue
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not to weird, it motivates you to check your gas levels when taking s trip. Someone having to come assist you while you are stranded is always a possible hazard to others.

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#9

It's Illegal To Disrupt A Wedding In Australia

It's Illegal To Disrupt A Wedding In Australia

In South Australia, if you purposefully disturb a wedding, a funeral, or any religious service, you can be fined $10,000 or be imprisoned for 2 years. In the Summary Offences Act 1953, it is stated, "A person who intentionally obstructs or disturbs a religious service or a wedding or funeral (whether secular or religious) [...] is guilty of an offence."

Unknown Report

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#10

You Cannot Enter The British Parliament Wearing Armor

You Cannot Enter The British Parliament Wearing Armor

The Statute Forbidding Bearing Of Armour or Coming Armed To Parliament Act 1313 was enacted in 1313 during the reign of Edward II Of England. The law is still in force today, although no one has been prosecuted for this in modern times. It states, "that in all parliaments, Treatises and other Assemblies, which should be made in the realm of England for ever, that every man shall come without all force and armour."

Wikimedia Commons Report

#11

In La Paz, Bolivia, Married Women Can Only Drink One Glass Of Wine In A Bar Or Restaurant

In La Paz, Bolivia, Married Women Can Only Drink One Glass Of Wine In A Bar Or Restaurant

In a city of La Paz, Bolivia, married women are allowed to drink only one glass of wine in public. The law is there to prevent them from drunkenly flirting with other men that are not their husband. Also, men can divorce their wives if they are seen drinking in public.

eagletonc Report

#12

Russia, Belarus, And Kazakhstan "Ban" Lace Undergarments

Russia, Belarus, And Kazakhstan "Ban" Lace Undergarments

In 2014 Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan introduced a regulation which requires clothing in contact with skin to contain at least 6 percent of cotton. Underwear not meeting the requirement was not to be sold in stores. But most luxury lace undergarments have less than 4 percent cotton in them, meaning that the regulation is practically banning it.
 
The reasoning for this was that synthetic fabrics don't absorb moisture as well and can cause skin problems. However, textile producers and shoppers were not happy about this and there were even protests against the ban in Kazakhstan.

Cali Fabrics Report

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#13

In Public Pools In France, Men Can Wear Only Clinging Swimming Trunks

In Public Pools In France, Men Can Wear Only Clinging Swimming Trunks

In France, swimming shorts are not allowed to be worn in public swimming pools by men; only skintight swimming trunks are allowed. Apparently, it has to do with hygiene, because men may wear their baggy swim shorts as normal shorts and then they may pick up dust, dirt, and such.

MALIZ ONG Report

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F. H.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was warned of that in the early 2000s and it turned out to be true. I suspected the reason given here.

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#14

Drunk People In The UK Can't Be In Charge Of A Cow

Drunk People In The UK Can't Be In Charge Of A Cow

According to the Licensing Act 1872 of the Parliament of the United Kingdom, which enacts various regulations and offences relating to alcohol, “Every person who is drunk while in charge on any highway or other public place of any carriage, horse, cattle, or steam engine […] shall be liable to a penalty.”

Iñaki Queralt Report

#15

Some Beaches In Spain Forbid Building Large Sandcastles And Statues

Some Beaches In Spain Forbid Building Large Sandcastles And Statues

Building sandcastles on the beach is a very usual activity not only among kids, but adults too. However, some adults take it to the extreme, building such huge sculptures and castles that they were banned on some beaches in Spain. Some of the sculptures were really intricate, depicting such famous works of art like the last supper, and artists would take tips from tourists. But it doesn‘t affect tourists as long as they build the usual small castles.

stephengg Report

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H Edwards
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Maybe the sand artists also used fixative sprays or something to make them stay intact. I always wondered if they did that.

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#16

It's Illegal To Tell Fortunes In Baltimore, Maryland

It's Illegal To Tell Fortunes In Baltimore, Maryland

In the city of Baltimore, fortunetelling for money is forbidden and is punishable with a fine or jail: “Every person who shall demand or accept any remuneration or gratuity for forecasting or foretelling or for pretending to forecast or foretell the future of another by cards, palmreading or any other scheme, practice or device, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be fined not more than $500 or subject to imprisonment for not more than 1 year.”

Wikimedia Commons Report

#17

It’s Illegal To Flag Down A Taxi In England If You Have The Plague

It’s Illegal To Flag Down A Taxi In England If You Have The Plague

You cannot ride a taxi or any public transportation if you know that you have plague or any notifiable disease, for that matter, like cholera, relapsing fever, smallpox, and typhus. The law is contained in the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1985. Public Health Acts date back to the mid-nineteenth century. Even though the law is quite old and plague cases are very rare, we now know how fast a disease can spread.

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#18

You Could Be Fined If Caught Eating And Drinking Near Churches And Public Buildings In Florence

You Could Be Fined If Caught Eating And Drinking Near Churches And Public Buildings In Florence

In 2018, the city of Florence banned people from pausing in the historic center to eat food standing or sitting on sidewalks, roadways, and on the doorsteps of shops and houses. For breaking the law, a person can get a fine up to €500 ($610). It was needed to stop people from littering and keeping the crowded historical center clean.

Wikimedia Commons Report

#19

It's Illegal To Sell And Import Chewing Gum In Singapore

It's Illegal To Sell And Import Chewing Gum In Singapore

Chewing gum was banned in Singapore in 1992, but currently it is not illegal to chew it, just to import it and sell it. In 2004, the ban had a revision and since then it is possible to buy therapeutic, dental, and nicotine chewing gum from a doctor or registered pharmacist.
 
The ban was introduced because vandals had begun sticking chewing gum on the door sensors of MRT trains, preventing doors from functioning properly and causing disruption to train services. Although they were rare incidents, they were difficult to fix and it was almost impossible to catch who did it. These incidents were just the last straw as the ban on chewing gum was brought up earlier, but not approved. Vandals were sticking their gum in mailboxes, inside keyholes, and on lift buttons. Chewing gum left on the ground, stairways, and pavements in public areas was hard to clean, so cleaning cost more and damaged cleaning equipment.

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#20

The Citizens Of Monaco Are Prohibited From Playing In The Monte Carlo Casino

The Citizens Of Monaco Are Prohibited From Playing In The Monte Carlo Casino

It was always forbidden for residents of Monaco to gamble in The Carlo Casino. When Princess Caroline developed the Monte Carlo Casino in the mid-1800s, she wanted all the revenue to come from foreigners. To compensate Monaco citizens for not allowing this form of entertainment, they are excused from income taxes.

Hans Report

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Ryan Deschanel
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What does it implies about them, when people refuse to use the products or services that they provide to others? Like silicon-valley tycoons who do not let their children use social networks... : "I know that s**t, I created it, so there is no way I will ever touch it".

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#21

You Must Provide For Your Elderly Parents In China

You Must Provide For Your Elderly Parents In China

In 2013, a new law was released in China requiring adults to care for their aging parents and visit them at least once a year. If the children fail to provide mental and financial support or don’t visit, they will have to pay fines or face time in jail. Because young adults are focused on their careers and want to be independent, their old parents are being left behind. It’s also because of the family planning policies that it is very easy for the only child to lose contact with their parents. And as China’s population is also getting old, more elderly people become neglected and feel lonely. So various measures are being taken and the "Elderly Rights Law" is one of them.

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#22

It's Illegal To Wear A Mask Fully Covering The Face In Public In Denmark

It's Illegal To Wear A Mask Fully Covering The Face In Public In Denmark

In 2018, Denmark’s parliament approved a law that makes it illegal to wear garments that cover the face in public. It raised concerns that this law is aimed at some Muslim women who wear veils such as the niqab or burqa. Politicians argued that this ban would promote integration, or public safety, or that wearing a veil is inconsistent with national values like gender equality. However, Muslim women expressed that they don’t feel like they are being integrated, but rather discriminated against as wearing veils is their choice.

Kristoffer Trolle Report

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J. F.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Denmark isn't the only country in europe that has that rule

Becky Samuel
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The amount of islamophobia in these comments is downright disgusting. You don't liberate someone by taking away their rights to do something. I am beyond disgusted by the pathetic excuses people are using to pretend that they somehow know what is best for Muslim women.

Ryan Deschanel
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In France too, and it is totally legitimate. Just don't hide your face in public, it is a safety issue.

QueerTheory
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

how does that logic make sense, now that the whole world is hiding their faces behind masks?

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Wilf
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wonder how many people here saying "women are brainwashed" or "women are forced" to wear religious headscarves have actually talked to a Muslim woman to ask them why they wear them? One of my very close friends wears the hijab. She's a biochemist at Oxford. She feels being Muslim is a part of her identity and she enjoys the RIGHT to express that however she choses. She doesn't need people to tell her what she thinks, and the idea someone so independent of mind could be "brainwashed" is laughable.

Vladimíra Matejová
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

with no regard to if they are or arent brainwashed they should not cover their face. hijab is something different than burqa. if they wear hijab as a symbol of their faith, ok. but the face should not be covered they need to be idetifiable by police and security cameras.

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Daria B
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A bit off-topic, but I've personally seen Muslim men protesting hijabs and similar garments at a related debate classes because, as they explicitly stated, it was invented to diminish women and it's a culture that should disappear. (Not making a point here, btw, just reporting on what I saw with my own eyes, just giving you something to think about. I find it interesting. )

Eva Muller
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not just about a niqab or burka. It's also elephant masks and helmets (like a bikers helment, that covers the entire face). Yes, I understand that it feels like it targeted muslim women, but that was not the only reason. If we can't see your face, we assume you are out to no good (in a store, if you have a mask/helmet on = you want to steal and make sure you can't be identified). Also: we want to see who you are. Face and bodylanguage means A LOT for communication!

SJM
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Muslims where the target and it was the only reason. However due to discrimination laws, they had to use more broad terms. This includes wearing a scarf over your mouth/nose when its freezing. Its a stupid law.

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Guido Pisano
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

in italy there is a law that forbids to cover your face (you must be recognizable)

Clinton Rye
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good for Denmark. More nations should ban this. It’s idiotic to believe any God could be this petty and controlling.

soni w
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Clinton, It's not about God. It's about people who THINK they are God. People like you. When I think of petty and controlling I think of Catholic and Christian religions. Just ask any woman and the issue of abortion. Read the Bible Clinton, I guarantee you you'll have a different version then.

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Eslamala
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Whenever I see extremely closed-minded religions and "choice" in the same sentence, I can't help but laugh. I get some people need to believe in whatever crap makes sense to them, but thinking these women have a choice is just wishful thinking. Go ahead, downvote me. I hate all religions and will never, ever, respect either of them.

sylvanticx
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

both you and Wim are incredibly small-minded. Religion helps people. Religion brings peace of mind. Sometimes it is abused, but in general religion is a good thing. Honestly, atheists are often more vocal about their faith than religious people. I respect your beliefs, you should respect mine, even if you disagree.

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Suzanne Haigh
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Should be law in all Europe, you have no idea who is behind the mask. Men acting as women in this disguise stole my Gt. Aunt's purse, she was 83 and on her own in town. Were they caught, naw, do not want to offend do we?

soni w
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And a woman dressed as a man robbed our local bank! Suppose we should stop women from wearing men's clothes! There is a HUGE difference between an opportunist and a faithful Islamic devotee.

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Russell Bowman
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not that odd ... in the Comminwealth of Virginia (U.S.) it is also illegal to weak a mask. Well, except fir these COVID times. Va 18.2-422. Prohibition of wearing of masks

Crouching hippo hidden panda
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That’s just blatant racism. If you advocate for women’s rights and inclusion, then accept them for who they are regardless of what garments they choose to wear, and provide safe environments and equal opportunities for them, and educate your nation on discrimination instead of contributing to it. Do better Denmark

Steve
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The real question here is if this practice is religious or cultural. If it's religious, coverings should be allowed with basic exceptions around law enforcement identification, etc... If it's cultural, follow the cultural rules where you live. If you don't like the rules, don't move there.

Steve
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As long as burqas are removed for ID photos and confirmation of identity by law enforcement, I don't see a problem

Callum McLeod
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They have this law in Quebec, Canada too. It's temporarily postponed due to pandemic. There are protests and even pins saying that the law sucks. A lot of people know FOR SURE that the law is BLATANTLY discriminatory. We also have a rule where it is illegal for educators to wear religious symbols in classrooms -_-

Nikki Owens
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a perfectly reasonable approach to preserving a country's national culture. It shouldn't require any more justification than that.

Frankenfrog
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And freedom of religion? What about the Viking culture of Denmark? That isn't being protected because Christians imposed their sick beliefs on everyone else

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Lene
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Stupid me thought it was mainly because of the demonstrations that sometimes went out of control related to ungdomshuset and that the protesters were so covered up that the police couldn't see on their video evidence who they wanted to arrest and then after that it became an issue about Muslim women's headgarments (which was not an actual issue as far as I know).... I must be remembering my history wrong despite living near the place the demos were taking place. 😬

Vicky Z
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

To be fair when you live in a country with some rules you need to respect them... i mean if i was living permanently in an Arabic country i wouldn't need to hide my face all the time as a woman? Not trying to be disrespectful to anyone but if you think about it that works both ways....

Carpeton
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Laws trying to ban veils, niqabs and so on are a hot topic everywhere across Europe

Inge van Echelpoel
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It was like that in Belgium. You had to be recognizable at every moment

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#23

In The Canton Appenzell Innerrhoden, Switzerland, Nude Hiking Is Against The Law

In The Canton Appenzell Innerrhoden, Switzerland, Nude Hiking Is Against The Law

Switzerland doesn’t have a specific law against nudity, just a law against indecency. This law was interpreted quite loosely by tourists and naked hiking became a popular thing. People were saying that they felt the sensation of freedom and connection with nature when they hiked naked.
 
The Swiss people didn’t appreciate encountering naked foreigners, so a vote was held in 2009 and it ended with a ban on nude hiking in the small canton in Switzerland, Appenzell Innerrhoden.

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#24

Canadian Radio Stations Must Play Canadian Artists

Canadian Radio Stations Must Play Canadian Artists

According to the Broadcasting Act in Canada, the country’s radio and television broadcasters must include a certain percentage of Canadian content in their programs. Canadian content is considered any content that was at least partly written, produced, presented, or otherwise contributed to by people from Canada. The requirements for radio play is to broadcast 40 percent of Canadian content a year, and for television, it is 55 percent yearly and 50 percent daily.

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Pezor Zass
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

growing up in Canada, I had mixed feelings about this law. looking back on it, though, i have to say that i was exposed to a wider range of music than i would have been without it if radio stations could just stick to the usual top 40.

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#25

You Can't Take Selfies With Buddha In Sri Lanka

You Can't Take Selfies With Buddha In Sri Lanka

Mistreatment of Buddhist images and artefacts is strictly taboo in Sri Lanka. And when you are taking a selfie, you stand with your back turned to Buddha, which is considered disrespectful, so you shouldn’t take selfies in front of it. They take it very seriously and there was a case of French tourists being convicted under a section of the Penal Code which outlaws deeds intended to wound or insult "the religious feelings of any class of persons" through acts committed in, upon or near sacred objects or places of worship. What did they do you may ask? Well, they were posing for a picture, pretending to kiss a Buddha statue.

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CatWoman312
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Always do research on laws and cultural beliefs in foreign countries before you visit.

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#26

It's Illegal For Your Chicken To Cross The Road In Georgia

It's Illegal For Your Chicken To Cross The Road In Georgia

In the United States, in the town of Quitman, Georgia, chicken or other domestic bird owners should keep their domestic fowl away from the streets or other public places. In Chapter 8 of the city’s Code of Ordinance, it is stated, "It shall be unlawful for any person owning or controlling chickens, ducks, geese or any other domestic fowl to allow the same to run at large upon the streets or alleys of the city or to be upon the premises of any other person, without the consent of such other person."

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Martin Kaine
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Chicken suppression laws are rampant in Georgia. How will we find out why they want to cross the road if we don't let them?!

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#27

Public Buildings In Wyoming Must Have Art Displays

Public Buildings In Wyoming Must Have Art Displays

Wyoming Statute 16-6-802 requires that newly constructed public buildings include art displays at a cost equal to 1% of the building’s total construction costs (but not to exceed $100,000). If the total cost of construction is less than $100,000, buildings are exempt from this requirement. The legislation was first passed in 1991. The artwork for each project is selected by a committee specifically selected for that project and its purpose is to beautify state buildings and draw attention to the wealth of artists' experience within the region.

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F. H.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Similar in Germany. Though I think the cap is much higher and you usually end up with huge ugly steel or granite lumps by "renowned" artists instead of giving smaller local people a chance.

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#28

Until 2015, It Was Illegal To Dance After Midnight In Japan

Until 2015, It Was Illegal To Dance After Midnight In Japan

From 1948 until 2015, it was illegal to dance after midnight in Japan. The ban was designed to stop prostitution that was linked to dance halls, but it wasn’t really enforced. However, the new law says club seating areas can't be too dark, which is an attempt to discourage crime. Darker clubs should be governed under the old law and have stricter rules for after-midnight operation.

George N Report

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Bored Seb
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

so like the gremlins. Don't feed them after midnight. Ok... but... when can we start again ? 2AM ? 5 AM ? 8 AM? that's complicated!

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#29

In Oshawa, Canada It Is Forbidden To Climb Trees

In Oshawa, Canada It Is Forbidden To Climb Trees

In the city of Oshawa in Ontario, Canada, it has been prohibited to climb trees since 2008. The law states, “No person shall interfere with a tree or part of a tree located on municipal property, including but not limited to attaching, affixing or placing upon in any manner any object or thing to a tree or part of a tree, and climbing the tree.” The city of Oshawa says that they care about their citizens’ safety so they prohibited this activity which can end with injuries.

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Pezor Zass
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

not fun, but if the trees are on municipal property, this is a reasonable law to protect people and head off lawsuits.

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#30

China Prohibits Unauthorized Buddhist Monks’ Reincarnation

China Prohibits Unauthorized Buddhist Monks’ Reincarnation

Until 2018, the State Administration For Religious Affairs (SARA) was a part of China‘s government, and in 2007, they issued a decree that all the reincarnations of tulkus of Tibetan Buddhism must get government approval, otherwise the reincarnations would be illegal.
 
Article 7 of the decree states, “once an application for a living Buddha’s reincarnation has received approval, […] the management organization at the monastery where the living Buddha is registered, or the corresponding Buddhist association, shall establish a search team to look for the reincarnate soul child, and search affairs shall be carried out under the leadership of the guidance team. No group or individual may without authorization carry out any activities related to searching for or recognizing reincarnating living buddha soul children.”
 
And when the reincarnate is found, the child will have to be approved by the provincial or autonomous regional people’s government religious affairs department, the State Administration For Religious Affairs or the State Council for approval, depending on the size of the living Buddha’s impact.

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Virgil Blue
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

China is quite evil if it comes to making other peoples religious lives difficult.

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#31

Venice Banned Feeding Pigeons

Venice Banned Feeding Pigeons

You can’t feed birds in St. Mark's square in Venice. For decades, you could find seed vendors in the square and tourists entertaining themselves by feeding the birds. But the population of pigeons became so dense that in order to save the historical monuments, measures had to be taken. A municipal ordinance banning people from feeding them in the square went into effect in 2008. Experts explained that the birds were pecking at the most exposed parts of the marble and damaging the buildings, they carried several pathogens on them, and that it cost taxpayers about €275 ($334) a year for repairs and cleaning up.

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F. H.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's illegal to feed pidgeons and ducks in many parks in Germany, too.

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#32

Employers May Be Fined If Their Employees Are Overweight In Japan

Employers May Be Fined If Their Employees Are Overweight In Japan

In 2008, the Japanese government approved a law requiring employers to combat obesity in the workforce or face fines. If the waistlines of employees who are older than 40 and younger than 74 is wider than 33.5 inches for men and 35.4 inches for women, employers may be required to pay more into the national health care system. It is because overweight people more often have high blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose which have to be treated. And for the person, they will not be punished, but offered counseling, advice from professionals, or exercise classes.

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#33

In Victoria, Australia It Is Illegal To Fly A Kite In A Public Space If It Disturbs Other People

In Victoria, Australia It Is Illegal To Fly A Kite In A Public Space If It Disturbs Other People

There is a law that is still in effect today in Victoria, Australia, that states that it is illegal to fly a kite if it‘s an annoyance to other people in a public space. In the Summary Offences Act 1966 section 4, it is stated that “Any person who in a public place flies a kite; or plays at a game to the annoyance of any person, shall be guilty of an offence.”

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Jessica Nametz
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So basically you just have to be respectful of other people trying to enjoy a public space... Doesn't seem so weird to me... ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

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#34

Close The Gate Or You'll Be Fined In Nevada

Close The Gate Or You'll Be Fined In Nevada

According to Nevada’s Revised Statute 207.220, "Any person or persons opening and passing through gates or bars when gates or bars are placed in fences enclosing fields, or in fences partly enclosing lands, and not shutting and fastening the same, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor." The law was passed in 1861 and has been on the books for well over 150 years.
 
It is possible that the law is the result of Nevada being a ranching state and closing the gates would be important for ranchers to make sure cattle or horses don’t get loose. Also, if someone leaves a gate open, then anyone can enter or leave the property that is not supposed to.
 
However, there is an additional paragraph in the law that the provisions mentioned earlier don’t apply to “gates in towns and cities nor gates necessary in the approach to any building or works where the passing through or into fields or lands is not contemplated.”

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Jane S.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm a farmer's daughter, and was taught to leave gates how you found them. If you had to open it, close it after you, and if you found it open, leave it open.

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#35

Cambodia Banned The Use Of Water Pistols During The Khmer New Year Festivities

Cambodia Banned The Use Of Water Pistols During The Khmer New Year Festivities

In Cambodia, the new year usually begins on 13 April or 14 April and the festivities last for three days. Traditionally it involves playing games and it’s a time to enjoy the fruits of their labor at the end of the harvesting season. In the early 2000s, it banned using water guns during the new year festivities in Siem Reap as it was feared that people may shoot acid instead of water.

Gregory Skylar Report

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Kennedy Johnson
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Woah! Acid! Really! I hate when people ruin fun things for other people. Like snacks on a plane.

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#36

It's Illegal To Pay With Too Many Coins In Canada

It's Illegal To Pay With Too Many Coins In Canada

If you have accumulated a jar of Canadian coins, it could be that the vendor might not take it. There are limitations on what you can pay for with which coin. Under Canada’s Currency Act of 1985 you can pay "(a) forty dollars if the denomination is two dollars or greater but does not exceed ten dollars; (b) twenty-five dollars if the denomination is one dollar; (c) ten dollars if the denomination is ten cents or greater but less than one dollar; (d) five dollars if the denomination is five cents; and (e) twenty-five cents if the denomination is one cent."

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#37

In Mexico, It Is Illegal For Bicyclists To Lift Their Feet Off The Pedals While Riding

In Mexico, It Is Illegal For Bicyclists To Lift Their Feet Off The Pedals While Riding

In Mexico, you shouldn’t lift your feet from the pedals while riding your bicycle, as it is seen as dangerous because you can lose control and crash. It is an old law, passed in the late 19th century after many accidents between cyclists and animals, pedestrians, and most serious of all, coaches. It was also required for cyclists to have a bell and a lamp at night.

FaceMePLS Report

#38

In Some Countries In The World, It Is Illegal For Civilians To Wear Camouflage Print

In Some Countries In The World, It Is Illegal For Civilians To Wear Camouflage Print

Some places in the world, like Ghana, Nigeria, Oman, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Zambia, and others, prohibit civilians from wearing camouflage clothing. It‘s not that the military uniform is prohibited for civilians to wear, but the pattern itself, like on hats or t-shirts. Only military personnel are allowed to wear it.

Derek Key Report

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denzoren
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes, it's illegal in Trinidad, Caribbean too. No form of clothing or print (includes vinyl on cars etc.). Only the military is allowed to wear camo.

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#39

You Must Honk When Passing A Car In New Jersey

You Must Honk When Passing A Car In New Jersey

New Jersey Statute 39:4-85 explains the traffic regulations when overtaking another vehicle, which sound normal, like you should pass on the left and return to the right only when you have reached a safe distance from the other vehicle. But there is a peculiar part of the section, saying, “The driver of an overtaking motor vehicle not within a business or residence district shall give audible warning with his horn or other warning device before passing or attempting to pass a vehicle proceeding in the same direction.”

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Daniel Atkins
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It was on the books in Missouri too. I'm sure they removed it that was 30 years ago.

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#40

There Is A Law In East Punjab, India That Requires Notifying People Of A Locust Invasion By Beating A Drum

There Is A Law In East Punjab, India That Requires Notifying People Of A Locust Invasion By Beating A Drum

Locusts can be devastating to a farmer if the right measures are not taken. But how would you know that there is an invasion of locusts? The East Punjab Agricultural Pests, Diseases and Noxious Weeds Act, 1949 explains that “in the event of any area being invaded, or in danger of an invasion, by locusts, the Collector of the district or other officer authorised by him in this behalf may call upon any male person not below the age of 14 years resident in the district to render all possible assistance in carrying out preventive or remedial measures and in the destruction of locusts […] it shall not be necessary to notify every person individually for his services, and a proclamation by beat of drum or other customary mode in the village or locality shall be deemed sufficient notice to all affected persons residing in that village or locality.”

pallavi010 Report

#41

It Is An Offence To Hang Laundry In Public In Trinidad And Tobago

It Is An Offence To Hang Laundry In Public In Trinidad And Tobago

In Trinidad and Tobago, you can’t hang your clothes on a line that is visible from the street. The Summary Offences Act declares, “Any person who commits any of the following offences in any street is, for each offence, liable to a fine of two hundred dollars or to imprisonment for one month, that is to say, any person who […] (e) hangs or places any clothes on any line or cord projecting over any part of any street, or on any wall, fence or paling abutting upon any street.”

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