Devin Jacobs
Ever wondered what’s really allowed in the eyes of the law? The world of law is full of surprising twists and turns, and what’s forbidden in one place might be perfectly fine in another. In this eye-opening list, let’s look at 15 legal behaviors that’ll make you question everything you thought you knew about the law!
Owning A Flamethrower
Feel the heat of freedom! In most U.S. states, you can legally own a flamethrower without any special permits. Companies like Elon Musk’s “The Boring Company” have even sold them as novelty items. Ohio specifies they’re not “firearms,” making them easier to purchase than a handgun in some cases.
Purchasing And Owning A Tank
Believe it or not, civilians can legally own tanks in most states in the USA. The catch? They must be demilitarized, meaning weapon systems are disabled. In Texas, you can even drive your tank on public roads if it has rubber treads. Some enthusiasts, like Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, amassed impressive collections.
Selfies In Voting Booths
In states like Hawaii and Utah, it’s legal to take selfies with your completed ballot. This controversial practice, banned in many places to protect voter privacy and prevent coercion, is protected as free speech in these areas. Snap away!
Filming into Homes
Lights, Camera, Action! In the USA, you can legally film into someone’s home from a public sidewalk. The law considers anything visible from public spaces fair game. This legal quirk stems from the “plain view doctrine,” which argues that if it’s visible to the naked eye, it’s not private.
Taking Your Pet Tiger For A Walk
Yes, you heard that right! Exotic pet ownership laws vary wildly across the U.S., with states like Alabama and Nevada allowing tiger ownership. However, many animal welfare organizations strongly oppose keeping wild animals as pets. So, a regular house cat would be a better option, isn’t it?
Driving A Car At Any Age
Can you believe there are no age restrictions for driving on private land? This means a kid could theoretically be doing donuts in the backyard before they’re out of diapers. It’s important to note that this law mainly benefits rural families, allowing youngsters to learn to drive tractors or help out on the farm.
Writing On US Currency
Doodled dollar alert! It’s believed to be legal to write on U.S. currency as long as it’s not for fraudulent purposes. This quirk has spawned projects like “Where’s George?”, tracking dollar bill travels. While defacing money isn’t encouraged, the law only prohibits attempts to render bills unfit for reissue.
Stealing A Pet In Virginia
Pet missing? In Virginia, pets are considered property. If you steal a pet animal valued under $1000, it’s only a misdemeanor, essentially a slap on the wrist! This shocking loophole means pet-napping isn’t punished as severely as many animal lovers would expect or hope.
Purchasing Human Bones
In most U.S. states, it’s perfectly legal to buy and own human bones! This macabre market thrives online, catering to medical students, artists, and curious collectors. While selling your own remains is frowned upon, possessing a stranger’s skull is fair game. Is it time for Halloween yet?
Dumpster Diving
Dumpster diving is generally legal in the USA, thanks to a 1988 Supreme Court ruling. Once trash is left for collection, it’s considered abandoned property. Some cities do have local ordinances against it. Despite its legality, divers may face confrontations with business owners or security guards.
Carrying A Sword In Public
Surprisingly, some states allow public sword-carrying. Texas permits open carry of swords, while California allows it unconcealed. Many states have blade length restrictions or classify swords as “dangerous weapons.” Even where legal, it’ll draw attention and possibly police inquiries. Private businesses often ban swords regardless of state law.
Living Off The Grid
Living off-grid is legal in most of the USA, but comes with challenges. You’ll generate your own power, manage water, and handle waste independently. Some areas require utility connections, and you’ll still pay property taxes. Despite hurdles, a couple of Americans still choose to embrace this self-sufficient lifestyle.
Dueling In Paraguay
In Paraguay, dueling remains technically legal if both parties are registered blood donors. This bizarre loophole, a remnant of historical honor codes, adds a modern twist to an antiquated practice. However, it’s purely theoretical – no actual duels occur in modern Paraguay despite its legal status.
Openly Carrying A Firearm
In certain states in the U.S., it is legal to openly carry a firearm in public, although these laws vary widely. Some states, like Arizona and Texas, allow public firearm carry without a permit, while others, such as California and New York, heavily restrict it. These differences can surprise those from areas with stricter gun control laws.
Building Your Own Aircraft
In the USA, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) gives aspiring aviators the green light to construct and fly their own aircraft under the Experimental Aircraft category. Whether you’re piecing together a kit or starting from scratch, your homemade flying machine can take to the skies after passing rigorous inspections and receiving an airworthiness certificate.