14 Strange (But True) Laws You’ll Only Hear About in Hawaii

Aloha from paradise—where the beaches are flawless, the sunsets are magical, and the laws are… a little offbeat. You’d expect a few quirks from a state made up of volcanic islands in the middle of the Pacific, but Hawaii takes “laid-back” to a whole new legal level. From outlawing coins in ears to regulating billboards and sunshine, the Aloha State knows how to keep it weird—with a lei and a legal citation.

1. It’s Illegal to Have More Than One Alcoholic Drink in Front of You at a Time

Ordering a backup mai tai? Think again. Hawaii law only allows you to be served one alcoholic beverage at a time—cheers, slowly.

2. No Putting Coins in Your Ears

An old law from Honolulu makes it illegal to place coins in your ears. Magicians, your sleight-of-hand may be charming… but not legal.

3. You Must Own a Boat if You Live on Kauai (Sort Of)

At one point, a local rule required residents of Kauai to own a boat in case of emergencies. Not strictly enforced, but it’s peak island prepper energy.

4. It’s Illegal to Laugh Loudly After 10 PM in Some Areas

Hawaiians love a good time, but not at full volume after dark. So if your luau punchlines hit hard, keep it at a respectful giggle after bedtime.

5. You May Not Build a Billboard Anywhere in the State

Hawaii is one of the only U.S. states to ban billboards outright. The islands want you to enjoy the view, not a 30-foot ad for discount tires.

6. You Can Be Fined for Not Owning a Garbage Can Lid

In Honolulu, no lid on your trash can? That’s a code violation. Don’t let those trade winds turn your recycling into street confetti.

7. No Feeding Birds in Public Parks

Tossing breadcrumbs to pigeons? You might get more than bird poop—try a fine. Hawaii takes its wild bird population very seriously.

8. You Can’t Text and Cross the Street in Honolulu

Yep, “distracted walking” is a real offense. Get caught looking at your phone in a crosswalk, and you could get ticketed for being an iZombie.

9. It’s Illegal to Ride in the Backseat Without a Seatbelt (Even in a Cab)

Aloha also means buckle up. Hawaii’s seatbelt laws apply to everyone, everywhere—including your sleepy Uber ride.

10. Hula Is Not a Crime (But It Was Once Heavily Regulated)

In the 19th century, hula dancing was restricted by missionaries. Today, it’s celebrated statewide—but at one point, shaking your hips required permission.

11. It’s Illegal to Take Lava Rocks from Volcanoes

Bad luck and against the law. Removing lava rocks from national parks is prohibited—and legends say Pele, the volcano goddess, doesn’t take kindly to theft.

12. You Can Be Fined for Leaving Your Car Idling

In many areas, it’s against the law to idle your car engine for more than three minutes. It’s part of an effort to reduce emissions… and give your AC system a break.

13. You Must Not Disturb the Sand Dunes (Yes, Even the Tiny Ones)

Hawaii’s coastal dunes are protected by law. So don’t sculpt a giant turtle unless you’re very sure you’re not reshaping sacred ground.

14. You Can’t Own a Snake Without a Special Permit

Hawaii is snake-free on purpose. You’ll need a special permit to own one—and that snake better have a good reason for being there.

So whether you’re sipping a solo mai tai or texting in place before you cross the street, just know Hawaii’s laws are as unique as its sunsets. Sure, they may sound a little wacky—but they’re rooted in protecting paradise. Now go forth, breathe in the salt air, and whatever you do… don’t steal lava.

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