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

Idaho: where the potatoes are plentiful, the mountains majestic, and the laws… well, let’s just say they’re mashed with a side of “what the heck?” While this rugged, spud-loving state is known for its outdoor adventure and small-town charm, Idaho’s legal code contains some rules that seem like they were passed during a particularly slow legislative session—or a county fair gone sideways.

1. It’s Illegal to Fish While Riding a Camel

Honestly, just trying to picture this is entertainment enough. Idaho law bans fishing from the back of any animal, including camels. So leave your desert mount at home, cowboy.

2. You Can’t Sweep Debris Into the Street

Want to push your sidewalk crumbs into the road? Nope—Idaho says that’s a misdemeanor. Cleanliness is next to lawfulness here.

3. It’s a Crime to Sell Chickens After Sundown Without Sheriff Approval

Yes, really. In some rural areas, selling chickens after dark without clearing it with the sheriff could technically land you in trouble. Late-night poultry deals? Suspicious.

4. It’s Illegal to Live in a Dog Kennel (Even If You’re a Human)

In Boise, humans are not allowed to take up residence in a dog kennel. Apparently someone tried it—and now it’s on the books.

5. You Can’t Ride a Merry-Go-Round on Sundays in Riggins

Looking for some weekend whimsy? Save it for Saturday. Riggins once banned Sunday carousel rides to preserve the Sabbath.

6. It’s Illegal to Give Your Sweetheart a Box of Candy Over 50 Pounds

An old law forbade suitors from gifting over 50 pounds of chocolate. Apparently Idaho wanted romance and diabetes in moderation.

7. You May Not Hunt From a Helicopter

James Bond-style elk hunting? Not in Idaho. It’s strictly illegal to shoot wildlife from an aircraft—this isn’t an action movie.

8. Public Displays of Affection May Be Limited to 18 Minutes

In some places, kissing in public for longer than 18 minutes is technically considered indecent. We’re not sure who’s timing it, but we hope they’re getting paid.

9. You Can’t Sell an Idaho Flag That’s Been Used as Bedding

That patriotic blanket on your bed? You better not try to sell it. The law says the state flag must be treated with respect—no napping allowed.

10. It’s a Misdemeanor to Ride a Bicycle Without Both Hands on the Handlebars

Freestyling? Showing off? Idaho says nope. Hands on deck—or face a fine.

11. Don’t You Dare Steal Another Man’s Timber Mark

In lumber country, timber brands are serious business. Steal someone’s logging mark and you’re looking at fines—or a chainsaw showdown.

12. You Can Be Prosecuted for Whispering in Someone’s Ear While They’re Hunting

Trying to offer hunting tips mid-deer stalk? Be careful—whispering to someone engaged in legal hunting is prohibited in some jurisdictions. Shhh = subpoena.

13. It’s Illegal to Harass Bigfoot

Yes, Bigfoot. The mythical creature is legally protected in some counties (looking at you, Bonner County). So if you see him—be chill.

14. You Must Not Ride a Motorized Scooter Inside a School Building

Zooming down the hallway like you’re in a Mission Impossible reboot? Not in Idaho. Scooters and school walls don’t mix.

Idaho may be rugged, scenic, and outdoorsy—but its legal code proves it’s also a little wild in the weird department. Whether you’re whispering in the woods or measuring your Valentine’s Day chocolates, one thing’s for sure: in Idaho, the law is just as unpredictable as the weather.

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