Oregon, (MJP) — The Beaver State, where the landscapes are lush, the coastlines are stunning, and the coffee culture runs strong.
But beneath the towering evergreens and vibrant cities, Oregon’s legal code has some quirky statutes that give the state a touch of whimsy.
So grab your favorite craft brew and join me as we dive into 12 strange laws you’ll only find in Oregon.
It’s Illegal to Whistle Underwater
Believe it or not, Oregon has a law making it illegal to whistle underwater. How anyone would manage this remains a mystery, but it’s safe to say Oregon wants to keep its water activities whistling-free.
No Pumping Your Own Gas
Oregon is one of only two states where it’s illegal to pump your own gas (in most areas). This quirky rule dates back decades and is all about supporting jobs and ensuring safety at the pump.
No “Babysitting” Your Ice Cream in Your Pocket
Oregon law makes it illegal to carry an ice cream cone in your back pocket. Originally intended to prevent horse theft, this unusual rule still hangs around.
You Can’t Test Your Physical Endurance on a Public Highway
It’s against the law in Oregon to test your physical endurance on a public highway. So if you’re planning a marathon, it’s best to keep it off the open road.
It’s Illegal to Box with a Kangaroo
Although you don’t see many kangaroos in Oregon, engaging one in a boxing match is technically illegal. Leave the sparring to the boxing ring and keep kangaroos out of it!
Shoelaces Must Be Tied While Walking on City Streets
In Portland, walking down the street with your shoelaces untied is illegal. Perhaps this law was made to prevent tripping, but it’s a funny reminder to double-knot before a stroll.
Dueling is Prohibited
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Dueling is strictly illegal in Oregon, even if both parties agree. If you’ve got a score to settle, you’ll have to find a way that doesn’t involve pistols at dawn.
No Throwing Human Waste from Your Car
This one might go without saying, but in Oregon, it’s illegal to throw human waste from a moving vehicle. Let’s just say it’s a law that keeps everyone’s ride a bit more pleasant.
No Animal Imitations Allowed for Buskers
Street performers in Oregon aren’t allowed to imitate animals. So if you’re performing on the streets of Portland, save the animal sounds for the zoo.
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You Can’t Leave Your Child Alone on the Sidewalk with a Goat
In some Oregon cities, it’s illegal to leave your child alone with a goat on public property. This unusual rule likely stems from keeping kids safe around unpredictable animals.
It’s Illegal to Eat Ice Cream on Sundays in Marion
An old law in Marion County prohibits eating ice cream on Sundays. While not enforced today, this odd rule gives you an excuse to save dessert for another day.
No Weddings on Ice Skating Rinks
If you’re planning a wedding in Oregon, you won’t be able to tie the knot at an ice skating rink. Perhaps it’s a safety concern, but it’s best to keep the vows off the ice.
And there you have it—a dozen of Oregon’s most unique laws that add a quirky charm to the Beaver State. Whether they’re relics from the past or rules meant to keep life running smoothly, these laws highlight Oregon’s playful and independent spirit.
So the next time you’re hiking the trails or exploring Portland, keep these strange statutes in mind—they might just make your Oregon adventure a bit more memorable!
Juniper Calloway is a dedicated journalist with 3 years of experience in covering hard-hitting stories. Known for her commitment to delivering timely and accurate updates, she currently works with MikeandJon Podcast, where she focuses on reporting critical topics such as crime, local news, and national developments across the United States. Her ability to break down complex issues and keep audiences informed has established her as a trusted voice in journalism.
