The 1980s were a whirlwind of color, music, and culture that shaped a generation. Amidst the neon lights and unforgettable hits, some regulations stood out as downright bizarre.
From seemingly harmless pastimes to quirky social practices, the legal landscape of this vibrant decade had its fair share of surprising restrictions.
As we dive into the unusual laws that once made headlines, prepare to be astounded by the oddities that were deemed illegal. Here are 15 strange things from the 1980s that caught many off guard.
1. Walking an Alligator in Florida
In the 1980s, Florida was home to a thriving alligator population. These ancient reptiles were both feared and admired, leading to the creation of protective laws. One peculiar regulation, from the early 20th century, prohibited tying an alligator to a fire hydrant.
This law was a relic from a time when alligators were hunted nearly to extinction. While the law was eventually deemed obsolete, it serves as a reminder of the state’s efforts to protect these fascinating creatures.
2. No Exploding Golf Balls in Massachusetts
In the 1980s, Massachusetts took a unique approach to golf safety. The state enacted a law banning the sale and use of exploding golf balls. This unusual regulation was a response to concerns about pranksters tampering with golf balls, creating dangerous hazards on the course.
The law aimed to protect players, spectators, and greenskeepers from potential accidents. While the threat of exploding golf balls has diminished over time, the law remains on the books as a testament to Massachusetts’ commitment to safety.
3. Driving Blindfolded in Alabama
In the 1980s, Alabama had a peculiar law that prohibited driving while blindfolded. This unusual regulation was a response to a specific incident in 1954, where two individuals were arrested for this bizarre behavior.
While the law’s origins are unclear, it likely aimed to prevent reckless and dangerous driving practices. Despite its unusual nature, the law remains on the books today, a testament to Alabama’s efforts to ensure road safety.
4. Eating Fried Chicken with a Fork in Georgia
In the early 1960s, Gainesville, Georgia passed a unique law that prohibited eating fried chicken with a fork. This unusual regulation aimed to preserve the traditional experience of enjoying this beloved southern dish with your hands.
While the law was more symbolic than practical, it led to some memorable moments, such as the arrest of Colonel Sanders in 1977 for using a fork. This quirky law continues to be a part of Gainesville’s history, celebrating the joy and tradition of eating fried chicken the old-fashioned way.
5. Fishing While on Horseback in Utah
In Utah’s early days, fishing laws were a bit more unusual. One peculiar rule prohibited fishing while on horseback. This regulation appeared in the 1980s, likely due to concerns about disturbing fish or damaging the environment.
However, this strange rule didn’t last long. By 2014, horseback fishing was no longer prohibited, allowing anglers to enjoy their hobby in a more unique way.
6. Sleeping in a Cheese Factory in South Dakota
In South Dakota, there was once an unusual law that prohibited sleeping in a cheese factory. This odd rule likely stemmed from concerns about contamination or the need for workers to remain alert during the cheese-making process.
While the exact date of its origin is unknown, the law was eventually removed in 2022, allowing cheese factory workers to catch some much-needed rest.
7. Pretending to be a Married Couple in Mississippi
In the 1980s, Mississippi had a unique law that prohibited unmarried couples from pretending to be married when checking into a hotel. This law aimed to uphold traditional family values and moral standards.
While the law was technically in effect, it was rarely enforced due to its outdated nature and the difficulty of proving a violation. The Mississippi Supreme Court even acknowledged that the law was widely ignored.
8. Tie a Giraffe to a Telephone Pole in Georgia
In the 1980s, Georgia had a peculiar law that prohibited tying a giraffe to a telephone pole or street lamp. This unusual regulation stemmed from concerns about potential accidents involving these majestic creatures and urban infrastructure.
While the law was eventually repealed, it remains a reminder of Georgia’s quirky legal history.
9. No Throwing Frisbee Without a Lifeguard’s Permission in Los Angeles
In the 1980s, Los Angeles had a unique law that prohibited throwing Frisbees or balls on the beach without permission from a lifeguard. This regulation was intended to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of beachgoers.
While the law was initially strict, it was eventually relaxed in 2012 to allow beach activities during certain months with lifeguard approval. This change aimed to strike a balance between fun and safety on the beach.
10. No Collecting Rainwater in Colorado
In Colorado, rainwater was once subject to unique regulations. The state’s water rights system, governed by the prior appropriation doctrine, allocated water rights based on a first-in-time, first-in-right basis. This led to a peculiar law that prohibited individuals from collecting rainwater on their property.
However, in 2016, Colorado passed a law allowing homeowners to use rain barrels for outdoor irrigation, marking a significant shift in the state’s water management practices.
11. No Selling Toothpaste and Toothbrush to the Same Person on a Sunday in Providence
In the 1980s, a rumor circulated about a peculiar law in Providence, Rhode Island. Supposedly, selling toothpaste and a toothbrush to the same person on a Sunday was prohibited. However, upon investigation, it was discovered that this was a myth.
No such law existed in Rhode Island’s legal statutes or Providence’s city ordinances. This false rumor highlights the power of urban legends and the importance of verifying information before spreading it.
12. Walking Backwards After Sunset in Ohio
In some parts of Ohio, there was once a peculiar law that prohibited walking backward after sunset. The reason for this unusual regulation remains unclear, but it likely stemmed from concerns about safety.
However, this quirky law has since been removed, allowing pedestrians to walk in any direction they choose, even if it means moonwalking under the night sky.
13. Dancing to the National Anthem in Massachusetts
In the 1980s, Massachusetts had a unique law that prohibited dancing to the national anthem. This unusual regulation aimed to maintain the dignity and seriousness of the song. However, over time, societal views have evolved, and the law was eventually deemed unconstitutional.
Today, the interpretation of the national anthem is protected by the First Amendment, allowing for artistic expression and individual creativity.
14. Placing a Coin in Your Ear in Hawaii
In Hawaii, there was once a peculiar law that prohibited placing a coin in one’s ear. This unusual regulation originated from Filipino cultural influences, which believed that the act could ward off evil spirits.
The law aimed to protect Hawaii’s currency from any mystical influences. While the law eventually lost its relevance, it serves as a reminder of the cultural intersections and historical curiosities that have shaped Hawaii’s unique identity.
15. No Riding a Bicycle in a Swimming Pool in California
In the 1980s, California had a peculiar law that prohibited riding a bicycle in a swimming pool. This unusual regulation was a response to the popularity of BMX riding and skateboarding, which often led to teenagers using empty pools as impromptu skate parks.
While the law was intended to prevent damage and accidents, it was rarely enforced and is now largely forgotten. This quirky rule serves as a reminder of the past when bicycles and swimming pools were combined in an unexpected way.