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

Nebraska: home to vast prairies, the Cornhusker State, and a fascinating array of quirky and downright amusing laws. Whether you’re exploring the state’s natural beauty, enjoying a football game, or driving through its charming small towns, Nebraska has some bizarre laws that you might not expect. From peculiar animal regulations to strange restrictions on behavior, the Cornhusker State keeps things interesting. Let’s take a look at some of the most surprising and hilarious laws you’ll only find in Nebraska.

It’s Illegal to Fish for Fish in Nebraska

While fishing is a beloved pastime in many parts of the U.S., Nebraska takes things a step further by making it illegal to fish for fish. The law specifically forbids trying to catch a fish if you don’t have a fishing license. So, while you can fish, you better make sure you’re licensed!

You Can’t Make “Ugly Faces” at a Public Event

Nebraska has a very particular stance on public behavior. It’s illegal to make ugly faces at a public event. This law is probably a throwback to a time when public decorum was more strictly observed—so, make sure to smile and keep it friendly in Nebraska!

It’s Illegal to Sell a Donkey Without a Permit

If you’re thinking of selling a donkey in Nebraska, you better make sure you’ve got the proper permit. The law requires you to have a license to sell a donkey, likely due to agricultural regulations and animal welfare concerns. So, before you try to find a new home for your donkey, make sure you have all your paperwork sorted.

It’s Illegal to Sit on the Sidewalk in Some Areas

In some areas of Nebraska, it’s illegal to sit on the sidewalk. Whether it’s for safety or cleanliness, this law is a bit of an oddity, but one you should keep in mind if you’re visiting a busy part of town and need a place to rest.

It’s Illegal to Be in a Bar While Drunk (Unless You’re a Bartender)

While drinking is a social activity in Nebraska, it’s technically illegal to be in a bar while drunk unless you’re working there. So, if you’ve had a few too many and are trying to stick around, the bartender might be legally required to ask you to leave.

It’s Illegal to Marry Your First Cousin (Unless You’re Over 50)

While cousin marriages are legal in some states, Nebraska has a strict rule about marrying your first cousin unless you’re over the age of 50. This law was likely created to discourage inbreeding while acknowledging that older individuals may be more mature and capable of making such a decision.

You Can’t Keep a Pet Raccoon Without a Permit

Raccoons might look cute, but keeping one as a pet in Nebraska requires a permit. It’s illegal to own a raccoon without the proper licensing, likely due to their potential to spread diseases or disrupt local wildlife. So, if you’re thinking of adopting a raccoon, you’d better check the regulations first.

It’s Illegal to Have a “Fighting Chicken”

While cockfighting is illegal across the country, Nebraska goes even further by banning anyone from having a “fighting chicken” in their possession. This law is meant to prevent the breeding and fighting of aggressive chickens, keeping them from being used in illegal activities.

It’s Illegal to Sell or Trade Human Organs (In Some Areas)

While selling organs is illegal everywhere, Nebraska has particularly strict rules about the trade of human organs in certain areas. The law aims to ensure that organ donations happen safely and ethically, so if you were thinking of making a deal for a kidney, think again.

You Can’t Cross the State Line with an Unopened Bottle of Alcohol

Nebraska has strict alcohol laws, and one of them prevents you from crossing the state line with an unopened bottle of alcohol. Whether you’re traveling into Nebraska or out, make sure your alcohol is opened before you cross into the state or face a potential fine.

It’s Illegal to Lasso a Fish

While fishing with a rod and reel is perfectly acceptable, Nebraska prohibits lassoing fish. This quirky law is probably in place to prevent dangerous and unsporting methods of catching fish. So, no cowboy-style fishing in Nebraska’s lakes or rivers.

It’s Illegal to Paint a Cat

While you may think painting your pet cat might be a fun art project, Nebraska has made it clear: you can’t paint your cat. This law is in place to protect animals from being harmed or stressed by such activities, and to keep your feline friend looking natural and beautiful.

You Can’t Sell Stolen Merchandise (Even in Yard Sales)

Selling stolen merchandise is illegal in Nebraska, and that includes items at yard sales. If you’re looking to make a quick sale on second-hand goods, make sure you don’t have any stolen items in the mix—or you might find yourself in serious legal trouble.

It’s Illegal to Ride a Horse on the Streets of Lincoln (Without a Permit)

Riding a horse in Lincoln might seem like a fun idea, but unless you’ve got the right permit, it’s against the law. The law was likely put in place to ensure that traffic stays smooth and to keep the public safe, but it’s still an odd rule for a city.

Nebraska is full of beautiful landscapes, rich history, and some of the quirkiest laws you can find in the Midwest. From banning lassoing fish to making sure you don’t paint your cat, the Cornhusker State has a unique take on its legal landscape. So, whether you’re planning to sell a donkey, take a nap on the sidewalk, or adopt a raccoon, make sure you’ve checked Nebraska’s odd but charming laws before you hit the road!