Missouri Dumb Laws

No Driving with an Uncaged Bear

Missouri takes road safety seriously, so seriously that it has a law prohibiting drivers from transporting an uncaged bear in their vehicle. While pet bears aren’t exactly common, this law suggests that at some point, someone attempted to take their furry friend for a ride without proper containment. It’s unclear how often this law is enforced, but it certainly raises questions about Missouri’s history with exotic pets. Source

No Honking Someone Else’s Car Horn

If you’re a passenger in Missouri, keep your hands off the horn! The state has a law that makes it illegal to honk someone else’s car horn. While honking is generally meant to alert other drivers or pedestrians, Missouri seems to believe that only the car’s owner should have that privilege. So, if you’re riding shotgun and feel the urge to honk, think twice; you might be breaking the law. Source

No Worrying Squirrels in Excelsior Springs

Missouri is serious about protecting its wildlife, so much so that Excelsior Springs has a law against “worrying” squirrels. What exactly constitutes worrying a squirrel? That’s up for debate, but presumably, it means harassing or startling them in a way that disrupts their peaceful existence. If you’re in Excelsior Springs, be sure to let the squirrels go about their business without interference. Source

No Sitting on the Sidewalk

Need a break while walking through Kansas City? You might want to find a bench, because sitting or lying down on the sidewalk is prohibited in certain areas. This law is likely intended to keep pedestrian pathways clear, but it’s still an unusual restriction. If you’re caught resting on the pavement, you could face a fine. So maybe opt for a café instead. Source

No Dancing in Purdy

If you’re looking to bust a move in Purdy, Missouri, you might be out of luck. The town reportedly has a ban on dancing, reminiscent of the plot of Footloose. While the origins of this law are unclear, it’s likely tied to historical religious or moral concerns. Whether or not it’s actively enforced today, it remains one of Missouri’s strangest legal quirks. Source