Throwing Away a Singing Greeting Card
You know those greeting cards that sing to you? Well, even though it’s on a small scale, these cards have a battery and circuit board, so it’s illegal to throw them in the regular trash. You have to seek out an authorized e-recycling place to properly dispose of it.
Betting with Friends
According to the Illegal Gambling Act of 1970, pretty much any bet involving more than 5 people and $2000 is illegal.
Putting Coins in Your Ears
We’ve all done it because at one point we were all kids. But did you know that in some places (like Hawaii) it’s illegal?
Cursing
Don’t curse in public. At least not in Mississippi because you can get a fine!
Leaving Up Your Christmas Decorations
Do you still have your Christmas decorations up? Well, in some states, like Maine, it’s illegal to leave up your Christmas decorations for more than 2 weeks into January.
Connecting to the Internet
According to the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, in the US its illegal to gain “unauthorized access” to a computer. Depending on the state, this may include connecting to any non-password protected wifi network!
Writing Disturbing Material
In some states, there are laws against writing “disturbing fiction.” (The interpretation of “disturbing” can be disturbingly vague.) So if you’re an aspiring writer, be careful. And if you live a crazy life…don’t let anybody read your diary.
Sleeping with Your Shoes on
If you live in North Dakota and you want to take a nap, you’d better remember to take off your shoes. Sleeping with them on is illegal! Granted this law is not enforced, but it’s still on the books.
Sharing Your Online Passwords
Depending on how you interpret various computer and fraud laws, sharing your password could potentially be prosecutable. Especially if it’s to something like Netflix.
Possessing Permanent Markers in Public
It’s basically due to anti-graffiti laws, but if you are caught with permanent markers in some states, you can be fined.
Registering with a Fake Name
The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act strikes again. Depending on the situation, creating fake profiles or registering using a fake name can be crimes.
Having Sex Outside of Marriage
In many states (such as Florida, North & South Carolina, Illinois, and Virginia to name a few), having sex before marriage (ahem, fornicating) can technically get you fines of up to $300 and 6 months in jail. Luckily for most people in those states, this law isn’t enforced.
Having Sex Outside of Marriage
In many states (such as Florida, North & South Carolina, Illinois, and Virginia to name a few), having sex before marriage (ahem, fornicating) can technically get you fines of up to $300 and 6 months in jail. Luckily for most people in those states, this law isn’t enforced.
Speeding
Unless you don’t own a car, you’ve definitely done this
Not Updating Your Driver’s License When You Move
You’re usually supposed to update your license within a few days of moving.
Trick or Treating
Due to various interpretations of state laws, in places like Virginia, trick or treating is technically illegal.
Trick or Treating
Due to various interpretations of state laws, in places like Virginia, trick or treating is technically illegal.
Sharing Prescription Drugs
Both federal and state laws make this illegal, but studies have shown that nearly 60% of people get prescription medication from family and friends.
Photographing Rabbits
To the 3 people who live in Wyoming – don’t recklessly photograph rabbits. During some parts of the year, you need to get a permit.
Not Getting a Dog License
Almost all states require you to register your furry friend.
Jaywalking
If there’s not a zebra…don’t cross. You can get fined in most cities!
Torrenting
Or downloading anything without paying for it.
Singing Off-Key
Hopefully North Carolina is filled with opera singers because singing off-key here is technically a crime.
Talking to People in the Elevator
Do you have your “elevator speech” ready? Well, in New York, you won’t need it; not if you’re obeying the law. Not only are New Yorkers not supposed to talk in the elevator, they’re supposed to stay staring straight ahead towards the door. But hey, it’s New York. The rules are made to be broken.
Possessing a Lobster That Is Too Small
Due to federal regulations and wildlife protection laws, it is actually illegal to possess lobsters under a certain size, even if you bought them at the grocery store.
Some of our laws are unfair!