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October 08, 2025

America's most absurd laws that are still on the books. (Continued)

Random State Laws

Hey Factonauts, here's the rest of the list - laws so strange they could be part of a comedy sketch, yet they are real and still in effect.

#5 - No Washing Mules on Sidewalks - Culpeper, Virginia

In Culpeper, Virginia, it's illegal to wash a mule on the sidewalk. This ordinance was likely created to protect public cleanliness and order. While washing mules on a sidewalk is rare today, the law is a reminder of the city's past.

#4 - No Flipping Coins to Decide Who Pays for Coffee - Richmond, Virginia

In Richmond, it's illegal to flip a coin in a restaurant to decide who pays for coffee. A very specific rule, yes, but it's still enforceable. This law was likely passed to avoid disputes and confusion over small transactions.

#3 - No Pushing a Moose Out of an Airplane - Alaska

Alaska takes moose seriously. It's illegal to push a live moose out of an airplane. The law addresses both animal welfare and safety concerns for people on the ground. While it sounds absurd, it comes from Alaska's unique relationship with its wildlife.


Five Below


#2 - No Donkeys Sleeping in Bathtubs - Arizona

In Arizona, it's illegal for donkeys to sleep in bathtubs. This law stems from a real incident in the 1920s when a donkey sleeping in a bathtub was swept away during a flood. The rescue operation was so complicated it inspired this bizarre ordinance - still enforceable today.

#1 - No Fake Mustaches in Church - Alabama

Alabama has a law forbidding fake mustaches in church if they cause laughter. This is one of the most peculiar laws in the U.S., designed to maintain decorum during religious services. Whether or not it's enforced today, it's still on the books.



Factoid of the Day



In Idaho, the law allows for cannibalism "under life-threatening conditions as the only apparent means of survival."




These laws show that truth really can be stranger than fiction. They reflect history, culture, and a little bit of humor - all preserved in legal code.

Next time you visit another city, take a moment to check their laws. You might just find one stranger than you ever imagined.

Got an idea for a future article? Shoot me an email here and if it passes my 'random-worthy' test, it just might show up in a future article!

Until next time,
Randy at Random Facts
Always Random. Never Boring