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

Texas: the Lone Star State, where everything is bigger—including the collection of quirky and bizarre laws. Known for its vast landscapes, cowboy culture, and everything from BBQ to oil rigs, Texas also has a few surprising legal oddities that you won’t find anywhere else. From strange animal regulations to peculiar public behavior rules, Texas keeps things interesting with its one-of-a-kind legal landscape. Let’s dive into some of the most surprising and amusing laws you’ll only find in the state that loves to do things bigger and better.

It’s Illegal to Shoot a Buffalo from a Moving Vehicle

While buffalo are more likely to be spotted in the wild or in protected reserves, it’s illegal to shoot one from a moving vehicle in Texas. This law ensures that hunting is done ethically and responsibly. So, if you see a buffalo, you’ll need to wait until you’re stationary to engage in any “shooting” activities.

It’s Illegal to Have More Than One Dildo (Without a Prescription)

Yes, you read that right. In Texas, it’s technically illegal to own more than one dildo without a prescription. This law is one of the remnants of Texas’ 1970s obscenity laws, though it’s no longer widely enforced and is largely seen as outdated and unenforced.

It’s Illegal to Drive Without a Shirt (In Some Areas)

While you might think of Texas as the perfect place for a little sun and fun, in some areas, it’s illegal to drive without a shirt. This law exists to prevent public indecency and keep things respectable on the road, so remember to throw on a shirt before hitting the highway.

It’s Illegal to Sell or Own the “First of the Month” Chicken in Some Areas

If you’re planning on selling a chicken to kick off the month in Texas, you might want to double-check local laws. It’s illegal to sell or own the “first of the month” chicken in certain places, a law that likely stems from an older agricultural regulation that’s no longer widely enforced.

It’s Illegal to Lasso Someone

While lassoing may be a fun cowboy skill, it’s actually illegal to lasso someone in Texas. This law was likely put in place to prevent assault or injury from a thrown lasso, but it’s still technically on the books.

It’s Illegal to Go to the Grocery Store Without a License (In Some Counties)

In some parts of Texas, it’s illegal to go to the grocery store without a license! While this law is outdated and no longer enforced, it’s a leftover from when grocery stores were heavily regulated. So, if you’re thinking about skipping down the aisles without any identification, think again!

It’s Illegal to Fish with Dynamite

In Texas, you’re not allowed to fish with dynamite. While this one might seem like an obvious rule, it’s written into law to prevent environmental damage and ensure that fishing remains a safe and sustainable practice. So, leave the explosives at home and use a fishing pole like everyone else.

It’s Illegal to Set Off Fireworks Within 600 Feet of a School

Fireworks are fun, but in Texas, you can’t set them off within 600 feet of a school. This law helps prevent accidents and keep children safe during fireworks season, ensuring that the explosive fun stays far from any school zones.

It’s Illegal to Shoot a Car With a Gun (In Some Areas)

In Texas, it’s illegal to shoot a car with a gun unless you have a very good reason. Whether you’re having a tough day or engaging in a heated disagreement, firing at a car is prohibited by law, as it’s considered a dangerous and reckless act. Keep the guns down and find a more peaceful resolution.

You Can’t Walk a Camel Down Main Street (Without a Permit)

While camels are often associated with desert landscapes, Texas law says that you can’t walk one down Main Street without a permit. If you’re planning to show off your camel, you’d better make sure you’ve got the proper permission to avoid a fine.

It’s Illegal to Own a Red Car in Some Areas

In some areas of Texas, it’s actually illegal to own a red car. While it sounds unbelievable, this law has been passed in certain municipalities to reduce traffic accidents—though it’s outdated and generally not enforced.

You Can’t Shoot a Whale from a Moving Boat

While you might think whales and boats don’t mix, it’s actually illegal to shoot a whale from a moving boat in Texas. This bizarre law likely comes from a time when whaling was more common in the state’s history, but it’s still technically enforced today.

It’s Illegal to Tie a Giraffe to a Telephone Pole

Tying a giraffe to a telephone pole is illegal in Texas. While you might not expect to see giraffes roaming the streets, the law is likely in place to prevent animals from being tied to public infrastructure in unsafe or disruptive ways.

It’s Illegal to Sell Your Own Eyes

In Texas, it’s illegal to sell your own eyes. This law is likely a holdover from older medical and ethical regulations, ensuring that body parts are not traded for profit. So, don’t think you can cash in on your organs; it’s not legal in Texas.

Texas is a state full of rich history, big personalities, and laws as unique as the Lone Star itself. From the regulation of fireworks to bizarre restrictions on animals and public behavior, Texas keeps its legal landscape as interesting as its vast landscapes. So, the next time you’re in Texas, make sure to follow the laws—whether it’s avoiding the lasso, keeping fireworks in check, or making sure your camel has a permit!