15 Things You Probably Didn’t Know Are Illegal Somewhere

Laws aren’t an objective thing, as many might believe. They are created by governments to regulate the specific needs of their cultures and geographic areas, and as such, laws differ between one country and another. There are many similar laws, attributed often to the basic human rights, but in many other ways they’re incredibly different.

We’ll go over a few of the laws that, if you weren’t aware of them, you wouldn’t know they were a thing. After all, it’s useful to know what’s illegal where, particularly if you’re planning a trip to Italy, Singapore, or even Canada.

Selling Chewing Gum in Singapore

Since 1992, selling gum has been banned to stop people from sticking it on the doors of subway trains. You can still get therapeutic or nicotine gum from a pharmacist, but regular sellers face fines up to over $1,000.

Running Out of Gas on the German Autobahn

Stopping on the high-speed Autobahn is extremely dangerous, so it’s forbidden for any reason you can control. Running out of gas is seen as a preventable driver error, so you can expect a fine for your poor planning.

Forbidding Camouflage Clothing in Barbados

On this and several other Caribbean islands, wearing camouflage is a no-go for civilians. The pattern is reserved exclusively for the nation’s military, and laws prevent anyone else from wearing it to avoid confusion or impersonation.

Using a Baby Walker in Canada

Canada banned baby walkers due to safety concerns. In the neighboring US, these devices are linked to about 2,000 emergency room visits for kids each year, leading American pediatricians to call for a similar ban on them.

Kissing on French Train Platforms

This old law was supposedly introduced to prevent passionate goodbyes from delaying train departures. While it’s not enforced today, it’s a romantic reminder of a time when a kiss could literally stop the traffic.

Censoring Winnie the Pooh in China

Don’t expect to see this lovable bear in China. Since 2017, the government has blocked images of him after memes comparing him to the country’s leader, Xi Jinping, went viral. The comparisons were viewed as disrespectful mockery.

Letting Chickens Cross the Road in Georgia

It’s the setup for a classic joke, but in Quitman, Georgia, it’s a real ordinance. An old law makes it illegal for owners to let their chickens run loose and cross the road. You have to keep your poultry penned in.

Frowning in Public in Milan, Italy

This has to be an urban legend, right? An old regulation in Milan supposedly requires citizens to smile at all times in public. The only exceptions are for funerals and hospital visits. So turn that frown upside down!

Stepping on Currency in Thailand

Thailand’s currency, the baht, features a portrait of the king, who is deeply respected by the Thai people. Intentionally stepping on any money is considered a huge insult to the monarchy and is punishable by law.

Swearing on WhatsApp in the UAE

Be careful what you type. In the United Arab Emirates, strict cybercrime and public decency laws extend to digital messages. Using profanity in a text or WhatsApp message could land you in serious trouble if reported.

Carrying a Plank on a London Pavement

This rule is part of a 19th-century law against creating obstructions on public walkways. It specifically forbids carrying things like casks, ladders, and planks of wood along the pavement, so maybe call for delivery on your next DIY project.

Washing Your Car on a Sunday in Switzerland

Like some of its neighbors, Switzerland has “quiet laws” that protect Sunday as a day of rest. This means noisy activities like mowing the lawn, doing construction, or even washing your car are often forbidden on that day.

Singing Off-Key in North Carolina

This law is almost certainly a joke that’s never enforced, but it’s technically on the books. In North Carolina, singing out of tune is considered a public nuisance. Bad news for karaoke singers who’ve had one too many.

Wearing a Suit of Armor in UK Parliament

This law dates back to the 14th century. The Statute Forbidding Bearing of Armour was enacted to prevent nobles from using armed force and intimidation to influence political proceedings. It’s still technically in effect today.

Eating on Florence’s Historic Streets

To combat litter and preserve its landmarks, Florence banned eating on the sidewalks of four specific historic streets and near the Uffizi Gallery. If you want to enjoy your gelato, you’ll have to find a bench or a cafe.