7 Bizarre Laws That Actually Exist in Oregon
Oregon has a reputation for being a bit quirky, and its laws are no exception!
From gas-pumping rules to bans on certain foods, here are some of the strangest, most unique laws that only make sense in the Beaver State.
Feature image author: Tony Webster
Table of Contents
- 1. No Hunting in Cemeteries
- 2. Leaving Your Car Door Open is a Fine Waiting to Happen
- 3. No Whistling Underwater
- 4. Throwing Your Food Out of a Plane is Prohibited
- 5. It’s Illegal to “Test Your Physical Endurance” on a Highway
- 6. It *Was* Illegal to Pump Your Own Gas
- 7. No Ice-Cream on Sundays
- MORE OREGON:
1. No Hunting in Cemeteries
Hunting is popular in Oregon, but there’s one place where it’s strictly off-limits: cemeteries.
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This law likely exists out of respect for the dead, but it’s still a funny reminder that in Oregon, you never know where a regulation might pop up.
2. Leaving Your Car Door Open is a Fine Waiting to Happen
In Oregon, it’s illegal to leave your car door open longer than necessary.
This law is likely aimed at preventing accidents or traffic interruptions, but it’s one of those rules that leaves newcomers scratching their heads.
3. No Whistling Underwater
One of Oregon’s most mysterious rules makes it illegal to whistle underwater.
While this one is more of a humorous “urban legend” law with unclear origins, it’s still a fun one to mention. If you’re taking a dip, you might want to keep your whistling above the surface!
4. Throwing Your Food Out of a Plane is Prohibited
If you ever find yourself flying over Oregon, don’t toss anything out of the plane window! This law is likely rooted in concerns over littering and environmental damage.
Although the rule might seem obvious, it’s technically on the books, making sure the skies (and the ground below) stay clean.
5. It’s Illegal to “Test Your Physical Endurance” on a Highway
In Oregon, you’re not allowed to test your physical endurance on the state’s highways.
Whether it’s jogging, cycling, or attempting a marathon, endurance tests are prohibited on major roads. It’s a strange one, but it’s likely meant to keep both participants and drivers safe.
6. It *Was* Illegal to Pump Your Own Gas
One of Oregon’s most famous laws prohibits residents from pumping their own gas, a rule that dates back to 1951. The law was originally passed as a safety measure, though afterward, it was partly about preserving jobs.
Visitors were often surprised to find an attendant ready to pump their gas! However, in 2023, they finally made it legal to pump your gas in Oregon.
7. No Ice-Cream on Sundays
Yes, unfortunately, if you were thinking of a sweet treat on a hot Sunday afternoon, you would be breaking the law in Oregon! Luckily, most people turn a blind eye to this rule!
