These 14 Weird Laws in Tennessee Are Unbelievable – yet Totally Real
You can't carry an ice cream cone in your back pocket in Tennessee. Who does that? Here are some more of the weirdest laws in Tennessee that might shock you.
Have you ever wondered "What is illegal in Tennessee?" Well, the times, they are a-changin', as the old song goes, and they are moving at a fast pace. With how fast society seems to move, it's incredibly easy for old laws to become outdated and forgotten. Sometimes, new, weird laws in Tennessee get put on the books that make us scratch our heads. We've gathered up a few strange laws in Tennessee for you. It's unlikely that you'd be prosecuted for many of them, but you do have to wonder what happened to even put them on the books to begin with! There are plenty of strange things about Tennessee, and these definitely belong on the list: So without further ado here are some of the weirdist laws in Tennessee.
1. It's illegal to sell hollow logs in Tennessee, so don't even try.
Supposedly, the reasoning behind this is that unscrupulous log dealers may sell them to unsuspecting buyers as solid wood, which burns better and longer.
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2. Carrying a skunk across state borders is a huge no-no. Of course, this is a hobby you probably want to avoid unless you want a stinky car, anyway!
This law may sound a little odd, but it does have sound reasoning behind it. Animals brought over from other states could easily out-compete native Tennessee animals and lead to problems with invasive species.
3. In Oneida, it is technically considered illegal for a woman to call a man up on the phone and ask him out on a date.
That's bad news for all those independent ladies out there! Perhaps a text message or a DM will work instead. The good news is, this law is not enforced, so no need to worry.
4. The only animal that is legal to shoot out of a moving car via the window is a whale. Good luck finding one of those in land-locked Tennessee!
Of all the weird laws in Tennessee, this just might be the strangest.
5. Feel free to move in with your girlfriends, ladies - but not too many of them.
If eight or more women are living together in Tennessee, the house is considered a brothel. Yikes! If this is enforced, I know this law could for sure get some of us in trouble.
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6. Spitting on the sidewalk in Lexington is quite solidly illegal.
Obviously, keeping a clean sidewalk is important in this small town in Tennessee, so I have nothing to say about this law as weird as it may seem.
7. It's definitely not a good idea, but did you know it's actually a misdemeanor to tattoo a minor (18) in Tennessee?
Most of us can probably agree that this law makes complete sense. And to further clarify, minors (16) with the consent of their parents can get a tattoo to cover up a previous one. A parent must be present during the cover up.
8. Because holding hands is considered a gateway to sexual activity, it is illegal to do so on school grounds.
Incredibly, this is not a long-standing law: this one was just passed in 2012!
9. Does that roadkill look appetizing to you? Go for it! It's completely legal to pick up some roadkill on the way home and fry it up for supper.
Note that this only applies to non-protected species and that you are required to notify TWRA or law enforcement if the animal in question is a deer.
10. In Oneida, the song "It Ain't Goin' To Rain No Mo" is actually outlawed. Make sure not to hum that tune too loudly if you're in the city! We guess someone got it stuck in their head one too many times.
11. As of 2011, sharing your Netflix account password is an illegal thing in Tennessee.
I guess Tennessee was ahead of the game because current Netflix users can't share their password with folks who live outside their home. Luckily, there will be no fine, but you'll need to pay extra for sharing your account.
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12. Sadly, the art of lassoing a fish is lost to Tennessee cowboys.
This is illegal to do here. How's that for strange laws in Tennessee?
13. Just in case this is something you were planning on doing, it is illegal to drive in Tennessee if you are asleep.
Though it might make traffic jams more bearable. No matter how you view this, it's dangerous to sleep behind the wheels, but does this apply if you have a self-driving car too?
14. It's illegal to carry an ice cream cone in your back pocket in Tennessee.
This one may sound odd, but it actually did once have a reason. Ice cream in your back pocket was supposedly an effective method of stealing a horse, who would be tempted by the sweet treat. Incidentally, it is still technically on the books that you can be hanged for horse theft in Tennessee, so you probably don't want to be stealing any horses.
Admittedly, most of the weirdest laws in Tennessee are old and completely unenforced now, but it makes you look at this beautiful Southern state a bit differently, hey? Who knew Tennesseans had a thing against skunks? I bet you found some of these weird laws in Tennessee shocking.
Life in Tennessee is always interesting, so you can also nominate any other weird things in Tennessee that you know of for a chance to see them featured in an upcoming article.
These laws might leave you scratching your head, but do you know what isn't weird? The views from the Raven Rock Trail at Roan Mountain State Park in Tennessee. Check out this beautiful hike in this YouTube video by us at OnlyInYourState then grab some maps from AllTrails+ to start exploring:
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
I always encourage others to stop and smell the roses, admiring the flowers or slowing down enough to witness the simple beauty all around you. This mindful practice is a great way to really savor and enjoy the great outdoors. We live in a gorgeous world, after all, filled with wonder and amazement -- but with the wild also comes danger. There should be no sniffing, touching, or other activities with these poisonous plants in Tennessee. If you happen to see the very plants I am about to tell you about in this article, you should run. Run and never look back! Just kidding, but before you head out into the wilds of the Volunteer State, you'll want to arm yourself with knowledge about one of the deadliest plants in Tennessee: poison hemlock. You know, because, safety first.
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Editor's Note: Poison hemlock looks a lot like Queen Anne's Lace, which is a harmless plant.
Just take a look at these beautiful bright white flowers -- you can almost imagine them swaying in a gentle summer breeze. But this plant should be avoided at all costs because even the slightest touch of these flowers can send you to an early grave. It is odd to think that something so calm and unassuming could be so dangerous. It is almost poetic, isn't it?
Poison hemlock is the name of this plant, but it can also go by poison parsley, spotted hemlock, Nebraska fern, California Fern, European hemlock, or deadly hemlock. This plant is an invasive species that originally had its roots (Sorry I can't help myself) in Europe and Northern Africa. Poison hemlock is here to stay, however, and this plant is certainly one of the deadliest plants in Tennessee.
You can typically find it in patches of fields, along the roadside, in drainage ditches, and along streams. You will know you have found it by the formation of white flowers and it also gives off a distinctive odor. Left untreated, these plants can even grow up to nine feet tall. Just imagine these Goliath plants looking down on you like the poisonous monstrosities that they are. It is enough to keep us away from drainage ditches...
Digesting just a handful of leaves could kill a person in around two hours' time, but also touching can be very harmful. If your skin comes into contact with poison hemlock it can get into your bloodstream causing a whole host of problems. Common effects of the toxicity include lethargy, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and face swelling.
That is why I am always telling my kids to not eat plants. Well, that, and the fact that it is weird.
If you happen to see the plants on your property, do not burn or mow over them, as even the fumes from these plants can be dangerous.
The best thing to do is to wear protective gear like gardening gloves, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and anything else to cover exposed skin. While pulling the plant make sure to get the whole root and then discard it with other lawn waste.
So now you know, the next time you see a pretty white flower, please think twice about picking it. Make sure what you are seeing is not poison hemlock.
Armed with information, don't let the dangers of the natural world prevent you from adventuring and seeing more of our beautiful state. Knowledge is power, so just by reading this, you are becoming smarter! Congratulations on leveling up.
It's good to know about the most poisonous plants in Tennessee and how to avoid them. Stay safe out there as you explore and see all there is to see in our wonderful state. If you are looking for a truly amazing trail, then check out this section of the Appalachian Trail in Tennessee for some of the best scenery on the whole entire trail.
If you can't help yourself and you have to eat things you find in the woods then you might as well be armed with knowledge. This pocket guide to edible wild plants could quite literally be a lifesaver.
