The Gem State is no stranger to the weird and wonderful world of silly legislation, and like many states, we harbor a number of outdated statutes written too long ago to be relevant, and too nonsensical to make removing them from the rulebooks worth the effort. So, we dug a little deeper into Idaho's hidden vault of crazy laws to see what sort of ridiculous ordinances we could find that you haven't heard of yet. Here are just a few of the weirdest laws in Idaho:
1. It is against the law to live in a dog kennel (or house) unless you're a dog.
But if you do, it gives new meaning to being "in the doghouse."
2. In Idaho Falls, it is illegal to ride a motorcycle if you're over 88.
Sound off, Idaho Falls locals. Is this one actually enforced?
3. And don't you dare think about riding a merry-go-round on a Sunday, you rebel.
There must be a story behind this crazy law in Idaho...somewhere.
4. In Tamarack, it is illegal to buy onions after dark without a permit.
But when the sun is up, onion rings all around!
5. You also can't sell chickens after sundown without permission from the Sheriff.
I'm assuming that this doesn't include fast-food chicken?
6. Hunting with a remote using the Internet is punishable by law.
The law says nothing about hunting with a remote without the Internet, however.
7. But it's also forbidden to hunt from a helicopter, whether it's in the air or not.
I guess this one seems logical ...
8. Selling an "Idaho Deluxe" potato with rot, blemishes, or sun damage can get you sent to jail for up to six months.
We take our potatoes very seriously here.
9. In Pocatello, you are required by law to smile.
And I quote, "It is prohibited for pedestrians and motorists to display frowns, grimaces, scowls, threatening and glowering looks, gloomy and depressed facial appearances, generally all of which reflect unfavorably upon the city’s reputation." So, turn that frown upside-down!
10. Public displays of affection in Idaho are limited to under 18 minutes.
I think we've all been in situations where this law could have come in handy. That, or a hose.
11. In Eagle, it is illegal to sweep dirt from one's house into the street.
Let's keep it clean, folks!
12. The state of Idaho forbids you from fishing off the back of a camel.
This is another one of those preposterous rules that doesn't make a lick of sense.
13. But before you search for a different mammal to fish from the back of, know that giraffes are off-limits too.
I don't know about you, but my weekend plans are now completely ruined.
14. According to the "Mayhem" section of Idaho Code, cannibalism is also illegal unless it is necessary to survive.
Well, duh. But if you're a zombie? Do what you gotta do.
Do you know of any other weird laws in Idaho? If so, we'd love to hear about them!
While there may be some strange laws in Idaho, we still know that it's one of the best places to explore, especially on a road trip! But, before you go, make sure you are prepared. Check out our ultimate packing list so you are always ready for your next road trip adventure!
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