Illinois Adds New Laws, But Leaves Old, Weird Laws Still On Books
Sure, we're adding new laws like making distracted driving a moving violation, but it's still against the law for girls to throw snowballs in Mount Pulaski?
It would be fun to say that this sort of thing only happens in Illinois, but that would be totally dishonest. Nearly every state has some head-scratching statutes on its books.
However, I don't have the time or inclination to get into what the other states are doing, so in the interest of protecting you from prosecution on your next Illinois road-trip, here are a few of Illinois' stranger laws that, for whatever reason, could still get you prosecuted today.
- It's fine for boys in Mount Pulaski to throw snowballs, but against the law for girls to do it.
- In Galesburg, no person may keep a smelly dog.
- It's against the law to urinate on a street sign in Normal. (okay, maybe that one's not so weird)
- In Joliet, you must contact the police before entering the city in an automobile.
- In Lincoln, you can be ticketed if you park more than 12 inches from the curb.
- Mispronouncing is a misdemeanor in Joliet. ("We heard you say Jolly-Ette, mister! You're coming with us!")
- In Galesburg, no bicyclist may practice "fancy riding" on any city street.
- In Kenilworth, a rooster must step back 300 feet from any residence if he wishes to crow.
- In Kirkland, bees are not allowed to fly over the village or through any of the streets.
- In Moline, ice skating during the months of June and August is prohibited. (I'm thinking it might be a lack-of-ice issue...)
- In Horner, it is against the law to use a slingshot unless you are a law enforcement officer.
- Kites may not be flown within the city limits of Chicago.
- In Evanston, it is unlawful to change clothes in a car with the curtains drawn, except in case of fire. (But, I just spent a lot of money on new drapes for the Oldsmobile, officer!")
As I mentioned, Illinois is not the only state with some strange stuff masquerading as laws: