Nebraska Dumb Laws

Whale Fishing

Despite being completely landlocked, Nebraska reportedly has a law prohibiting whale fishing. While it’s likely a joke or a misunderstanding, this law has appeared on multiple lists of bizarre state regulations. If you’re planning to fish in Nebraska, you might want to stick to the local lakes and rivers. Whales are definitely off-limits. Source

Donut Holes on Sundays

If you’re craving donut holes in Lehigh, Nebraska, make sure to buy them on Saturday. Selling donut holes on Sundays was once illegal in the town, though the reasoning behind this restriction remains unclear. Whether it was meant to discourage indulgence or simply an outdated ordinance, it’s certainly one of Nebraska’s more unusual laws. Source

Belching in Church

In some Nebraska towns, burping during a church service can be considered a misdemeanor. While it’s unclear how strictly this law is enforced, it’s a reminder to keep your soda intake in check before heading to Sunday service. Source

Barbers Can’t Eat Onions

In Waterloo, Nebraska, barbers are prohibited from eating onions between 7 a.m. and noon. This law was likely enacted to spare customers from unpleasant breath during their morning haircuts. While it may not be actively enforced today, it’s a quirky glimpse into Nebraska’s past hygiene concerns. Source

Hotels Must Provide White Cotton Nightshirts

An old law in Hastings, Nebraska, required hotels to provide clean white cotton nightshirts for guests. While it’s unclear why this law was necessary, it’s certainly an unusual requirement for lodging establishments. If you ever find yourself in Hastings, you might want to ask the hotel staff if they still honor this tradition. Source