Oklahoma Dumb Laws

A Towel Is not a Cape

In the town of Bromide, Oklahoma, it’s reportedly illegal for children to wear towels as capes and pretend they’re Superman. While the exact ordinance isn’t widely published, the law appears on multiple lists and is believed to have stemmed from safety concerns, likely from kids jumping off rooftops trying to fly. Whether it’s enforced or not, Bromide seems to take pretend superpowers seriously. Source

Simulating Intimacy in Bars

Oklahoma law makes it illegal for bar owners to allow simulated sexual activity with animals, including buffalo, inside their establishments. Yes, that’s in writing. The law is part of broader efforts to regulate indecent conduct in public venues, but the oddly specific mention of a buffalo has earned it viral fame. We’ll let you imagine what prompted the statute in the first place. Source

Mugging for Dogs

It may sound like a joke, but in Oklahoma, making an “ugly face” at a dog is reportedly an offense that could lead to a fine or worse. The law appears on multiple compilations of strange statutes, but we were unable to verify it in the official state code. That said, it’s a pretty good rule of thumb for life: don’t scowl at other people’s pets.

Hunting Whales

Oklahoma is about 1,000 miles from the nearest ocean, but that didn’t stop lawmakers from banning whaling. Why such a law exists in a landlocked state is unclear. It may have been symbolic, or just lifted from federal wildlife protection language. Either way, if you’re planning to hunt whales in Tulsa, best make other plans. Source

Furry Moral Panic

In 2024, Oklahoma lawmakers passed a bill (HB 3084) banning students from identifying as animals or “furries” in public schools. The law allows school officials to remove students engaging in animal behavior, even if it’s part of self-expression. Supporters say it’s about discipline and order; critics argue it’s a culture war distraction targeting nonconforming students. Source