New Orleans Strangest Laws and Regulations

It’s probably not that surprising that a city as unique as New Orleans has some pretty strange laws to go along with it. However, even those who are expecting a number of weird laws are likely to find that some of the following go beyond the pale. Some of these are statewide, while others are unique to New Orleans itself.

Mardi Gras

Might as well start with the biggest party in Louisiana, Mardi Gras. There are a few unusual laws that apply during this time of the year. The first is that it’s unlawful to toss Mardi Gras beads from a third story window. The second is that snakes (but not lizards or frogs or turtles) must not be any closer than 200 yards from the Mardi Gras parade route. Additionally, you can’t toss objects at a parade float, and you can’t throw condoms off of a float.

Weirdest of the Weird

Then there are the laws that are specific enough that you wonder why the heck they were made into laws. The first of these is a doozy. It is illegal for a taxi driver to make love in the front seat of their taxi, but only during their work shift. The second is just odd, in that folks attending a wake are not allowed to eat more than three sandwiches. New Orleans also makes it illegal to practice voodoo, tie an alligator to a fire hydrant, and ride a bicycle one-handed.

Rude Behavior

Then we have the laws related to inappropriate behavior or being rude in general. A few different laws fit under this heading, but let’s start with the fact that New Orleans makes it illegal to fall on a sidewalk and block the path while you’re drunk. Apparently, it’s fine if you’re sober. Snoring is also strictly prohibited unless all bedroom windows are shut and locked. It’s also illegal to urinate in a water supply, something that can net you up to 20 years in prison. Gargling in public places is also prohibited.

Sportsmanlike Behavior

If you enjoy sports, make sure you aren’t breaking the law while you watch or participate. You should know that fake wrestling matches are prohibited. Who determines whether a match is fake or not is unknown. It’s also a crime for fans attending a sports event to disparage the players or hurl insults.

Specific Strange Laws

Then we have the laws that make you wonder how they ended up on the books. It’s illegal to order pizza for a pal as a prank, one that can wind up landing you $500 in fines. You also are not allowed to dare anyone to go onto railroad tracks that are owned by another party.

New Orleans is a great place with lots of culture and exciting events, but it also has an influx of weird laws you’ll find nowhere else. Brush up on some of the stranger ones so you can share with your friends!