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

Rhode Island may be the tiniest state in the U.S., but don’t let its size fool you—its laws are supersized in weirdness. Known for clam cakes, coastal charm, and having more shoreline than logic sometimes, the Ocean State packs a whole lot of quirky into its colonial corners. From outlawing “fake biting” to regulating how you handle fish on Sunday, here are the strangest laws you’ll only hear about in Rhode Island.

1. It’s Illegal to Bite Off Someone’s Limb—But Only if It’s Done “Maliciously”

So technically, if you bite off a body part by accident or in friendship(?)… you’re fine? This law needs a few more footnotes—and maybe fewer teeth.

2. You May Not Sell Toothpaste and a Toothbrush to the Same Customer on a Sunday

Because clearly, coordinated oral hygiene is a sin on the Sabbath. Stock up on Saturdays, sinners.

3. No Pickle May Be Sold Unless It Bounces

Like other New England states, Rhode Island once used the “pickle bounce test” to determine edibility. If it splats—it’s trash.

4. It’s Illegal to Race a Horse on a Highway

While this might’ve made sense in 1850, it’s still on the books. So if you’re saddling up on I-95, expect to get pulled over by a very confused trooper.

5. You May Not Keep a Sheep in Your Car Without a Chaperone

Rhode Island wants to protect livestock and public decency. No unsupervised sheep joyrides allowed.

6. Throwing Anything at a Bus is a Crime (Even Marshmallows)

Yes, even soft, sugary projectiles are illegal. Don’t mess with public transit, even in snack-based protest.

7. You Can Be Fined for Smoking a Pipe After Sunset in Newport

Apparently, puffing your pipe after dark could lead to a fine. Sherlock Holmes would not be welcome here.

8. It’s Illegal to Pretend to Be an Astrologer Without a License

No license? No star charting. Even fake astrologers need to get real permits in the Ocean State.

9. Fishing on Sundays Without a License is Prohibited—Even if You’re Just “Looking”

Rhode Island doesn’t mess around with fishing regulations. Rod, bait, or just vibes—if it’s Sunday, better have a license or walk away from the pond.

10. It’s Illegal to Sell Stolen Seafood

Seems obvious—but apparently it’s happened enough to require a dedicated statute. That “mystery clam” deal? Maybe don’t.

11. You Can’t Ride a Bicycle With Your Hands Off the Handlebars

No showing off your no-hands balance in Providence. It’s not a circus—it’s a misdemeanor.

12. It’s a Crime to “Falsely Report a Ghost”

If you’re going to call in paranormal activity, you’d better mean it. Rhode Island has no patience for fake hauntings or clout-chasing poltergeist alerts.

13. No Sleeping on Park Benches in Certain Cities

In places like Cranston, falling asleep on a public bench can get you a fine. Even if you’re just “resting your eyes.”

14. It’s Illegal to Use Explosives to Catch Fish

If your fishing strategy sounds like a Michael Bay film, Rhode Island says no. Dynamite + cod = not a sustainable combo.

For a state that could practically fit in your pocket, Rhode Island sure knows how to legislate the bizarre. Whether you’re watching your pickle’s bounce, avoiding bus-targeted marshmallow attacks, or ghost-reporting responsibly, the Ocean State proves that size doesn’t matter—especially when it comes to truly weird laws.

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