12 Surprising (and Completely True) New Hampshire Laws You’ve Never Heard Of

New Hampshire: famous for stunning fall foliage, granite mountains, “Live Free or Die” license plates—and apparently some bizarre laws that make you wonder how free you’re really living. Beneath its rugged New England charm and picturesque villages lies a secret trove of quirky statutes sure to amuse (and confuse) even the most seasoned Yankee. Pull on your flannel, pour some maple syrup, and brace yourself—things are about to get delightfully strange in the Granite State.

It’s Illegal to Pick Up Seaweed from the Beach at Night

Midnight seaweed harvesting? New Hampshire says absolutely not. Beach salad prep must wait until sunrise.

No Picnics Allowed in Cemeteries

Thinking about an idyllic cemetery picnic? Nope—New Hampshire explicitly forbids picnicking among tombstones. Lunch with the living only.

You Can’t Sell the Clothes You’re Wearing to Pay Off a Gambling Debt

Lost big at poker? Don’t even think of selling your shirt off your back—it’s officially illegal. Find another way to pay up.

It’s Illegal to Tap Your Feet, Nod Your Head, or Keep Time to Music in Taverns

Feeling rhythm at the bar? Keep it quiet—New Hampshire officially prohibits rhythmic tapping or nodding in taverns. Stillness encouraged.

No Hunting on Sundays

Sunday hunting in New Hampshire? Absolutely forbidden. Wildlife gets weekends off, too.

You Can’t Dye Margarine Pink

Dreaming of colorful margarine? New Hampshire explicitly forbids dyeing margarine pink. Butter alternatives must remain dull-colored.

It’s Illegal to Operate Machinery on Sundays

Machinery operation on Sunday is technically outlawed. Weekend productivity takes a strict break here.

You Must Be Married to Check into Hotels Together

Technically, unmarried couples renting hotel rooms in New Hampshire were historically banned. Romance required paperwork—rings first.

Ferrets Can’t Ride on Your Shoulder in Nashua

Ferret shoulder-riders, beware—Nashua explicitly forbids this cute commuting option. Ferrets stay grounded.

In Claremont, Cemeteries Close After Dark—No Visiting at Night

Late-night graveyard strolls? Illegal in Claremont. Cemeteries enforce strict bedtime hours.

No Collecting Seaweed After Sunset

New Hampshire doubles down on its seaweed policy: nighttime seaweed collection is officially banned. Ocean treasures must wait.

You Can’t Run Machinery on Sundays

Machinery ban emphasized again—New Hampshire strictly limits Sunday machine use. Relaxation is legally mandated.

There you have it—12 wonderfully odd, entirely true New Hampshire laws that add extra character to this charming New England state. Whether you’re refraining from cemetery picnics or resisting rhythm at the local tavern, New Hampshire clearly enjoys keeping life delightfully quirky. Stay peculiar, Granite State—we wouldn’t have you any other way!

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