17 weirdest laws that exist in different countries

Laws are primarily created to ensure peace and justice in society. However, as time progresses and new needs arise, unique laws with no precedents are also developed. Some of these laws are so peculiar that they may sound absurd when you hear about them. Yet, no matter how odd these laws may seem to us, there is always a reason behind them. In some cases, these laws may even stem from personal desires of certain country leaders.

A Donkey Sleeping in a Bathtub is Prohibited

In the state of Arizona, USA, it is legally forbidden for donkeys to sleep in bathtubs. This law originated from an incident in the early 20th century involving a flood. During the flood, a donkey that was used to sleeping in an old bathtub in the yard ended up floating away in the tub. Despite extensive rescue efforts, people were unable to save it. To prevent such situations from recurring, this law was implemented in 1924.

Black Cars are Banned

In neighboring Turkmenistan, black cars are prohibited. Reportedly, this law was introduced because former President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow believed that the color black brings bad luck. Since 2015, the importation of black cars has been halted, and by 2018, existing cars had to be repainted in white or similar colors.

You Can’t Own Land

In China, all land is considered state property. Therefore, individuals or companies can only lease land for up to 70 years.

You Can’t Die in City Limits

Since 1950, the Norwegian government has prohibited dying and burials within the city limits of Longyearbyen. This is because cold temperatures preserve viruses and bacteria in buried bodies for centuries. When ice melts, there is a risk of releasing harmful pathogens into the environment. However, life inevitably involves death. In such cases, residents are transported to cemeteries located thousands of kilometers away.

Toy Guns are Prohibited

In Japan, it is illegal to sell toy guns that resemble real firearms. This law aims to prevent the development of violent tendencies among children.

People Can’t Choose Any Hairstyle They Want

In North Korea, citizens are only allowed to wear hairstyles approved by the government. There are 18 hairstyles for women and 10 for men officially registered.

No Skating on Streets

In some Canadian cities, skating on sidewalks is prohibited to ensure pedestrian safety.

Houses Must Be Painted with Permission

In certain Italian towns, residents must obtain permission from local authorities to paint their houses. This law is aimed at preserving the historic aesthetic of these towns.

No Eating in Public During Ramadan

In the United Arab Emirates, eating in public places during the day in Ramadan is prohibited. This law seeks to show respect for fasting Muslim communities.

No Car Washing on Sundays

In Switzerland, washing cars on Sundays is forbidden. This day is regarded as a day of rest, and activities like car washing are considered potentially disruptive.

Unmarried People Must Pay Extra Tax

In Missouri, USA, individuals over the age of 21 who are unmarried must pay an additional $1 in taxes annually. This law encourages marriage and also aims to address conflicts that may arise in cohabiting relationships without legal recognition.

Naming Pigs Napoleon is Illegal

In France, it is against the law to name pigs “Napoleon.” This rule was introduced to protect the honor of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.

No Flushing Toilets After 10 PM

In some parts of Switzerland, flushing the toilet in multi-story buildings after 10 PM is forbidden to avoid disturbing neighbors.

Forgetting Your Wife’s Birthday is Forbidden

In Iceland, men are legally required to remember their wives’ birthdays. The purpose of this law is to promote the cultural importance of marriage.

Gaining Weight is Prohibited

Since 2008, Japan has enforced the “Metabo Law” to promote a healthy lifestyle. According to the law, the maximum waist size for women is 85 cm, and for men, it’s 90 cm. Employers and local governments are responsible for annually measuring the waistlines of 40 to 74-year-olds. If a significant percentage of employees exceed the limits, the employer is subject to penalties.

You Can’t Die in Parliament

In the UK, if you die in Parliament, it is considered a criminal offense. However, reports suggest that this law has never been enforced despite four recorded deaths in Parliament.