8 Crazy Laws in West Virginia That Will Leave You Scratching Your Head In Wonder

Law and order are important to society, of course, but some of the laws that are out there are just plain odd. Some of these weird laws in West Virginia made sense for their time and just need an update; others are so peculiar that it makes you wonder what sort of event inspired their existence. Here are some of the strangest laws in West Virginia.

1. Whistling underwater is prohibited.

We can't imagine why this law ever would have been needed.

2. When a railroad passes within 1 mile of a community of 100 or more people in it,

they must build a station and stop there regularly to pick up and drop off passengers.

You can check out if this is enforced by going on one of the great train rides in West Virginia.

3. Roadkill may be taken home for supper.

This law is celebrated with the annual Roadkill Festival in Marlinton.

4. It is illegal to snooze on a train.

You'll probably find that this is not enforced, but you won't want to snooze on any of West Virginia's scenic train rides.

5. A tax of 1 cent is levied for every 16 and 9-ounce container of coke sold in a store.

This law is still in effect, but strangely specific.

6. A person may not hold public office if he or she has ever participated in a duel.

We suspect this issue doesn't come up very often these days.

7. For each act of public swearing a person shall be fined one dollar.

It's basically like your mom's swear jar.

8. One may not walk a lion, tiger, or leopard, even on a leash.

This law is specific to the city of Alderson, so feel free to walk your tigers elsewhere. Now we know you are pretty upset that you can no longer walk your tiger in Alderson, but there is no need to fill the swear jar.

How many of these weird laws in West Virginia have you broken? Perhaps there are other funny laws in West Virginia you've heard about. If so, share them in a comment. For more about life in West Virginia, check out the 13 best decisions you can make in West Virginia.