10 Crazy Laws In New York That Will Leave You Scratching Your Head In Wonder

If you look into it, almost every state has some oddball laws that will have you wondering how they even came into existence. The Empire State is no exception. Read on to see what weird laws in New York you may be guilty of having broken!

1. It's illegal to sell dog or cat hair.

You'll be surprised to learn this is actually illegal in several states! Why would anyone even want to buy it? Apparently, it isn't unheard of to make or stuff clothing out of domestic cat or dog hair. Animal hair is sometimes used industrially to clean up oil spills. Just don't sell "fur, skin, hair, or flesh of a domestic dog or cat" in New York and you'll be fine.

2. It's illegal to wear slippers in public after 10:00 pm in New York City.

Like most of the crazy laws in New York on this list, it's questionable as to whether you'd actually be cited for this one. Apparently, it's thought that smelly slippers might attract rats and other vermin. Or maybe just buy a new pair of slippers if you don't want to break this funny law in New York?

3. It's illegal to throw a ball at someone's head for fun.

This law was originally enacted to protect carnival workers.

4. It's illegal to release more than 25 helium-filled balloons at a time.

While having such a specific number may seem kind of weird, this one actually makes sense! The releasing of balloons at weddings, gender reveal parties, and other celebrations is extremely harmful to wildlife. All those balloons have to come down somewhere!

5. It's illegal to walk around on Sundays with an ice cream cone in your pocket.

Interestingly, this one is a law in several other places as well! Legend has it that this was enacted to prevent horse thieves from attempting to entice horses to follow them to follow the delicious frozen treats. We're not sure why it's legal the other six days of the week, though.

6. Citizens may not greet each other by “putting one’s thumb to the nose and wiggling the fingers”.

This one is a British gesture known as "cocking a snook." It's a sign of derision that is apparently considered so offensive that New York lawmakers had to enact a law to forbid it.

7. It is illegal to speak to people on an elevator.

We aren't sure of the reasoning behind this one, but apparently, elevator passengers should silently hold their hands in front of them and face toward the door.

8. It's illegal to take a selfie with a tiger.

There goes our plans for the weekend!

9. You need a license to hang clothes on a clothesline to dry.

This one is a bit contentious. Clotheslines are banned in some areas of the country, as they are considered eyesores that lower property values. Environmental activists say they should be allowed to save money and electricity by drying clothes au natural if they choose.

10. Men outside of their home must wear a matching jacket and pants.

Gents, better look sharp!

Are you guilty of breaking any of these weirdest laws in New York? Have you ever heard of any other funny laws in New York? Tell us all about them in the comments! Also, check out these funny traditions that Empire State residents will defend to the death... almost as if they are laws!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-york/strange-habits-ny/