14 Surprising (But True) Laws You’ll Only Hear About in California

California: a state known for its sunshine, tech startups, and a healthy dose of weirdness. From the Hollywood Hills to the beaches of Malibu, there’s a lot to love about the Golden State. But beneath the surface of surfboards and red carpets lies a collection of quirky laws that are sure to make you do a double-take. Get ready to explore California’s most amusing and bizarre rules that prove it’s a state like no other.

No Whistling for a Lost Canary

If you’ve got a pet canary that’s gone missing in California, you’d better stop whistling to call it back. It’s technically illegal to whistle for a lost canary in the state—guess the birds here need a little more privacy!

It’s Illegal to Eat Oranges in Hotels (In Some Places)

If you’re staying in certain hotels in California, keep that juicy orange to yourself. Some towns have made it illegal to eat oranges in hotel rooms, likely to avoid sticky messes, but it’s still an oddball rule.

You Can’t Hide a San Francisco’s Unborn Child’s Sex

Expecting a baby in San Francisco? Don’t try to keep the baby’s sex a secret! California law requires the disclosure of an unborn child’s sex to the public (whether you’re in the mood for a grand reveal or not).

It’s Illegal to Drive Without a Steering Wheel

No need to check your car for a steering wheel—you need one! California law is clear: if you’re going to drive, you better have a wheel, or you’re breaking the law. Automated cars, take note!

No “Fake” Mustaches in Church

If you’re considering wearing a fake mustache for fun during a California church service, you might want to reconsider. It’s illegal to wear any kind of fake mustache that causes others to laugh. Apparently, church is a place for serious business (and no laughter).

It’s Illegal to Jump into the Ocean After Sunset

Thinking of a moonlit swim in California? You’d better think again. Some areas of the state prohibit swimming in the ocean after sunset—likely to preserve your safety and avoid pesky marine creatures.

You Can’t Water Your Lawn During a Drought

This law sounds pretty sensible, but if you were hoping to show off your lush lawn, think again during a drought. California law requires that residents refrain from watering their lawns during dry spells—because every drop counts.

You Can’t Set Off Fireworks Near a Church or School

While fireworks may be a staple for the Fourth of July, lighting them up near a church or school in California is strictly forbidden. Maybe save the sparklers for a more appropriate location?

No Skipping Your Public Restroom Duty

In California, it’s technically illegal to use a public restroom as a mere place to hang out. If you enter a public restroom, you’d better be using it for its intended purpose—or you might get a ticket!

You Can’t Ride a Bicycle in a Swimming Pool

Sounds like a fun idea, right? Not in California. It’s illegal to ride a bicycle in a swimming pool, which, frankly, sounds like something someone would only do in a wacky movie.

It’s Illegal to Hunt in a Game Preserve While Dressed in Camouflage

While camouflage might help you blend in on the hunt, if you’re in a California game preserve, you better leave the camo behind. It’s illegal to hunt while wearing camouflage gear in certain areas.

You Can’t Slide Down a Bathtub Without a Permit

Who knew you needed official permission to slide down a bathtub? Well, in California, if you’re planning to have a bath slide, you might want to get a permit first to avoid any legal waterworks.

It’s Illegal to Place a Dying Person in a Bathtub

California’s laws don’t just cover donkeys and bicycles—they’ve got the sensitive topics too. It’s illegal to place a dying person in a bathtub, likely as a reminder of the state’s unique (and often quirky) approach to public health.

No “Pee-Wee” Football in Some Cities

In certain California cities, it’s illegal for children to play “pee-wee” football, and don’t even think about a tackle. These laws are part of an effort to reduce potential injuries, but it’s definitely a head-scratcher when compared to the state’s overall sports enthusiasm.

California’s collection of strange laws is as vast as its landscapes, proving that sometimes, the wilder the rule, the more memorable it is. These laws give us a glimpse into the Golden State’s commitment to keeping things orderly, safe, and, well, occasionally hilarious. Whether you’re visiting or living in California, be sure to brush up on these quirky laws—you never know when you might encounter a “mustache” restriction or need a permit to slide into a bathtub!