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

Michigan: the Great Lakes State, where the winters are long, the lakes are longer, and the legal system is—how do we put this—creatively specific. While Michigan is known for its auto industry, fudge, and fierce college rivalries, its law books are full of head-scratchers that would make even a seasoned lawyer say, “You’re joking, right?” But we’re not. These are the weird, wild, and wonderfully real laws of Michigan.

1. It’s Illegal to Be Drunk on a Train

That boozy Amtrak adventure? Not in Michigan. Riding the rails while intoxicated could land you in legal hot water, even if you’re just a tipsy tourist.

2. You May Not Scare a Pigeon in Detroit

In Detroit, intentionally frightening pigeons is against the law. Whether it’s psychological trauma or bird-rights advocacy, the pigeons win this round.

3. It’s a Felony to Sell Your Vehicle on a Sunday

In Michigan, Sunday car sales are a no-go. The law is a throwback to “blue laws,” and yes—it still exists. No wheelin’ and dealin’ until Monday.

4. It’s Illegal to Tie Your Crocodile to a Fire Hydrant

If you somehow have a pet crocodile in Michigan, make sure it stays far away from city plumbing. The fire department doesn’t want to wrestle your reptile.

5. You May Not Paint Sparrows and Sell Them as Parakeets

Yes, this happened enough to require legislation. No avian identity fraud allowed. Michigan demands bird honesty.

6. Women May Not Cut Their Own Hair Without Their Husband’s Permission (Outdated, But Still on the Books)

An old law from a different era, this one thankfully isn’t enforced—but it’s still floating around in the legal archives like a bad perm.

7. You Can’t Put a Skunk in Your Boss’s Desk (Even as a Joke)

This actually falls under “intent to cause distress.” Turns out, stinky revenge isn’t legal workplace behavior.

8. It’s Illegal to Serenade Your Girlfriend in Kalamazoo After Dark

Kalamazoo once banned nighttime singing under a woman’s window. Romeo would not do well here.

9. It’s a Crime to Willfully Destroy an Old Radio

Don’t take your anger out on vintage tech. In some places, destroying antique radios is frowned upon—possibly due to their “historical value.”

10. Farm Animals Have the Right of Way on Roads

If a cow crosses your path, you wait. Michigan law gives livestock the legal edge. Moo means move over.

11. You May Not Swear in Front of Women and Children

An old law banned “profane language” in the presence of women and minors. Not enforced today, but once upon a time, dropping an F-bomb near a family picnic could earn you a fine.

12. In Harper Woods, It’s Illegal to Paint Your Lawn Pink

Looking to make a bold statement? Think again. Harper Woods demands natural turf tones, or else.

13. You Must Not Sleep Naked in a Hotel Room

An oddly personal piece of legislation, but yes—it’s technically a misdemeanor in some local codes. Better bring pajamas.

14. It’s Against the Law to Play “The Star-Spangled Banner” as a Dance Remix

Michigan law requires the national anthem to be played respectfully—no techno, trap, or dubstep versions allowed. Uncle Sam does not drop the bass.

So there you have it: Michigan, where you can’t fake a parakeet, must keep your croc on a leash, and shouldn’t get too funky with the national anthem. While the Mitten State may be famous for its lakes and cars, its legal oddities add an extra layer of charm (and caution) to your visit.

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