SOUTHCAROLINA -- Laws are put in place to keep the public safe. But, some of these strange rules and regulations on the books have us scratching our heads.
When it comes to fishing in South Carolina, stick to the rod and reel; you can find yourself in handcuffs if you use a yo-yo or dynamite to bring in the catch. Also, buying or selling an electric eel will land you in hot water. Mind you, while it is illegal to possess a walking catfish, and although this law is rather serious, we had to include it because it just sounds so silly.
A railroad company can be held financially liable in some instances for scaring horses. Another on the equine front, it's illegal to keep your horse in a bath tub.
If you're driving a non-horse driven vehicle and are approaching a four-way stop, the law states you must stop 100 feet from the intersection and discharge a firearm to warn horse traffic.
On the subject of firearms, in South Carolina, men must bring a rifle to church on Sunday in order to ward off attacks from Native Americans.
Feeling artistic? Painting or sculpting with turkey feathers requires a permit.
Apparently, not only is the Sabbath supposed to be a day of rest and no work, in South Carolina it's illegal to sell musical instruments.
Enjoy going to the arcade? Better stay away from the pinball machine unless you're at least 18-years-old.
If a man proposes to an unmarried woman, he better follow through. The law states the marriage must take place.
A collection of random silly state laws:
- Use of stink bombs is illegal
- Wearing a mask in public with the exception of holidays and for use in a theatrical production is unlawful
- Betting on the results of an election is a crime
- It is considered an offense to get a tattoo
- A permit is required to fire a missile
Cities, too, have their own ordinances. Here's a few highlights:
In Charleston, the fire department may blow up your house. Plus, it's illegal to drive a motorized vehicle on King Street.
In Clemson, if your female dog is in heat, she must be confined. Also, lifeguards must be present at apartment complex pools, but only after 11 p.m.
In the town of Fountain Inn, horses are required to wear pants at all times.
If you're visiting the Furman University campus in Greenville, be mindful of the drinking age-- you must be 60!
A law on the books in Lancaster County says it's a crime to dance in public.
In Myrtle Beach, you can't change your clothes at a gas station without permission from the owner.
Lastly, in Spartanburg eating watermelon in the Magnolia Street Cemetery is forbidden.
(Sources: RealStrangeLaws.com; DumbLaws.com; & WeirdFacts.com)
