15 Crazy Laws From Around the World

FUNNY FACTS

2/24/20254 min read

brown wooden doll on white ceramic toilet bowl
brown wooden doll on white ceramic toilet bowl

The world is full of strange rules and quirky laws that will make you scratch your head. From banning high heels in historic places to making it illegal to swear at public events, some laws are so bizarre that they sound made up—but they’re 100% real! Buckle up and prepare to laugh (or gasp) at these 15 crazy laws from around the world.

1. No High Heels at Historic Sites – Greece

Want to visit the Acropolis in Athens? Better leave your stilettos at home! Greece has banned high heels at ancient sites to prevent damage to the centuries-old monuments. Apparently, sharp heels and ancient marble don’t mix well. Sensible flats, anyone?

2. It’s Illegal to Chew Gum – Singapore

In Singapore, chewing gum is strictly prohibited unless it’s for medical purposes, like nicotine gum. The law was introduced in 1992 to keep public places clean and litter-free. So, if you’re visiting, leave the gum at home unless you want a hefty fine!

3. No Flushing After 10 PM – Switzerland

In some parts of Switzerland, it’s illegal to flush the toilet after 10 PM in apartment buildings. The rule is meant to reduce noise and maintain peace. Talk about strict noise control!

4. You Must Smile at All Times – Milan, Italy

In Milan, it’s a legal requirement to smile at all times, except during funerals or hospital visits. This quirky law dates back to ancient regulations intended to maintain public morale. So, if you’re feeling grumpy, better fake a smile!

5. No Winnie the Pooh in Playgrounds – Poland

In one Polish town, Winnie the Pooh is banned from playgrounds because he doesn’t wear pants. Officials were concerned about his “inappropriate” attire, labeling him as an “incomplete” bear. Poor Pooh Bear—who knew he’d be such a controversy?

6. It’s Illegal to Die in Parliament – UK

According to ancient British law, it’s illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament. Why? Because anyone who dies there is entitled to a state funeral. While it’s unlikely anyone would be prosecuted, it’s still technically on the books!

red double-decker bus passing Palace of Westminster, London during daytime
red double-decker bus passing Palace of Westminster, London during daytime
7. No Kissing at Train Stations – France

In France, it’s illegal to kiss on train platforms. The law was introduced in 1910 to avoid delays caused by long, tearful goodbyes. So, if you’re feeling romantic, wait until you’re off the platform!

8. You Can’t Wear Camouflage – Barbados

In Barbados, it’s illegal for civilians to wear camouflage clothing, as it’s reserved for the military. This law helps prevent impersonation and maintains authority. Tourists, take note—leave the camo shorts at home!

9. No Swearing in Public – Australia

In certain parts of Australia, including Victoria and Queensland, swearing in public is illegal and can result in fines. If you’re visiting and stub your toe, better bite your tongue!

10. It’s Illegal to Drive a Dirty Car – Russia

In Russia, driving a dirty car can get you fined. The law is meant to keep license plates visible, but some officers interpret it as keeping the whole car clean. Car wash, anyone?

11. No Feeding Pigeons – Venice, Italy

Feeding pigeons in Venice is illegal to protect historical monuments from damage caused by bird droppings. If you’re caught feeding the birds in St. Mark’s Square, you could face a hefty fine. Sorry, Mary Poppins fans!

12. It’s Illegal to Forget Your Wife’s Birthday – Samoa

In Samoa, forgetting your wife’s birthday is actually illegal! Husbands who fail to remember the special day could face fines or other penalties. Talk about relationship goals (or pressures)!

unwashed white sedan parked inside building's parking lto
unwashed white sedan parked inside building's parking lto
yellow chess lot on storage racks
yellow chess lot on storage racks
13. You Can’t Wear High Heels at the Colosseum – Italy

Similar to Greece, high heels are banned at the Colosseum in Rome to protect the ancient structure from damage. Who knew fashion could be so dangerous to history?

14. No Sleeping in a Cheese Factory – South Dakota, USA

In South Dakota, it’s illegal to fall asleep in a cheese factory. This bizarre law probably originated as a safety measure, but it’s definitely one of the strangest American laws still on the books.

15. It’s Illegal to Reincarnate Without Permission – China

In China, Tibetan monks are legally required to get government approval before they can reincarnate. The law was implemented to control religious practices and maintain political stability. It’s possibly the most mystical law ever created!

Which Crazy Law Surprised You the Most?

Which of these strange laws left you speechless? Do you think you could live by these rules, or would you accidentally break a few? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re traveling to any of these countries, now you know what to avoid—no matter how weird it sounds!

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