Alabama, the land of college football, sweet tea, and laws that’ll make you say, “Wait, what?” Buried deep in the state code are some real gems—rules that sound more like Southern folklore than enforceable law. But believe it or not, these head-scratchers are 100% real, and they give a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘Only in Alabama’.
1. You Can’t Wear a Fake Mustache in Church That Causes Laughter
Apparently, the Lord frowns upon facial-hair-related tomfoolery. If your mustache is making the congregation giggle, you’re technically breaking the law.
2. It’s Illegal to Drive Blindfolded
This one shouldn’t have to be said—but here we are. Yes, Alabama had to clarify that driving while literally blindfolded is a no-go.
3. Bear Wrestling is Strictly Prohibited
Thinking about organizing a backyard bear smackdown? Think again. It’s a Class B felony to wrestle a bear, promote bear wrestling, or even watch it. Sorry, Smokey.
4. It’s Unlawful to Flick Boogers into the Wind
In one Alabama town, it’s illegal to flick your boogers into the breeze. Public decency wins again.
5. Dominoes Can’t Be Played on Sunday
If you’re in a particularly strict Alabama town, setting up a casual game of dominoes on the Lord’s Day might get you a citation. Heaven forbid a little competitive clacking before church.
6. It’s Illegal to Impersonate a Member of the Clergy
Dress up like a priest or nun for Halloween? Better keep it out of Alabama—doing so “fraudulently” could cost you up to $500 and some jail time.
7. Confetti is Banned in Mobile
Want to throw a fabulous parade? Great! Just leave the confetti at home—Mobile banned it for being too messy.
8. You Can’t Wear High Heels in Some City Parks
In the town of Mobile, again, women are forbidden from wearing high heels in public parks. The reason? To protect against lawsuits from tripping on uneven pavement. Fashion risk? Sure. Legal risk? Also yes.
9. You Must Not Put Salt on a Railroad Track
This one’s considered a misdemeanor because salt attracts cattle… which apparently used to be a big problem. Trains and cows don’t mix.
10. Playing Cards with a Native American is (Technically) Illegal
There’s an old Alabama law that prohibits playing cards with Indigenous people. Obviously outdated and offensive, but technically still on the books.
11. Masks Are Illegal in Public—With Exceptions
Unless it’s Halloween, Mardi Gras, or a public health emergency, wearing a mask in public is illegal in Alabama. Guess we all became outlaws in 2020.
12. It’s a Crime to Tie an Alligator to a Fire Hydrant
Because of course it is. Don’t expect to park your gator like a bike. Not in Alabama.
13. No Ice Cream in Your Back Pocket on Sundays
This old law was created to stop horse thieves, who used to lure horses away with a treat in their pocket. Alabama said, “Not on the Lord’s day.”
14. It’s Illegal to Pretend to Be Married at a Hotel
If you and your sweetie falsely claim you’re married to snag a cheaper rate or sneak in a room together—Alabama law says you’re committing fraud. Time to put a ring on it or book separate rooms.
So if you’re planning a visit to Alabama, make sure to leave your bear costume, domino set, and pocket ice cream at home—just to be safe. These laws may sound like the punchline of a Jeff Foxworthy joke, but they’re written in black and white. Sweet Home Alabama? Sure. Just don’t flick your boogers while driving blindfolded on a Sunday.
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