Strange Laws in Delaware
Delaware may be known as “The First State,” but it’s also home to some unusual laws that you probably didn’t know existed. Let’s take a look at five of these strange laws:
Pinball Prohibition on Sundays
Believe it or not, in Delaware, it is illegal to play a pinball machine on Sunday (Forbes). This quirky law harkens back to a time when certain activities were restricted on Sundays. So, if you’re a pinball enthusiast, make sure to save your gaming sessions for the other days of the week.
Opening a New Location Certification
If you’re planning to open a new location in Delaware, you’ll need to obtain a certificate from the Secretary of State before doing so (Forbes). This law aims to ensure that businesses comply with certain regulations and obtain the necessary permissions before expanding their operations within the state.
No Changing into Bathing Suits in Public Restrooms
Delaware has an interesting law that prohibits individuals from changing into their bathing suits in public restrooms. While the reasoning behind this law may not be clear, it serves as a reminder for beachgoers to plan their outfit changes accordingly.
The Form-Fitting Pants Ban
In Delaware, wearing pants that are “form-fitting” around the waist is against the law. The exact definition of “form-fitting” may be open to interpretation, but this law suggests that the state takes a unique stance on fashion. So, if you prefer looser-fitting pants, you won’t have to worry about violating this peculiar regulation.
Pretending to Sleep on the Boardwalk
Delaware prohibits individuals from pretending to sleep on a bench on the boardwalk (Forbes). While it may seem harmless to take a quick nap or rest on a bench, this law aims to prevent people from obstructing public spaces or causing disturbances. So, if you’re in Delaware and feeling tired, it’s best to find a more suitable location to rest.
These are just a few examples of the strange laws that exist in Delaware. While these laws may seem odd or outdated, it’s important to remember that they are part of the state’s legal history. So, if you ever find yourself in Delaware, make sure to follow these unique regulations and enjoy your time in “The First State.”
Quirky Laws in Rehoboth Beach
Delaware is known for its unique and sometimes unusual laws, and Rehoboth Beach is no exception. Here are some of the quirky laws that you may not have known about:
No Whispering in Church
In Rehoboth Beach, it is considered illegal to whisper in church (Only In Your State). While it may seem like a strange law, the intention behind it is to maintain a peaceful and respectful environment during religious services. So, if you find yourself attending a church service in Rehoboth Beach, remember to keep your voice at an appropriate volume.
Bench Benchers Beware
Another unusual law in Rehoboth Beach is the prohibition on pretending to sleep on a bench on the boardwalk. This seemingly innocent act is actually considered a misdemeanor offense (Only In Your State). While the reasoning behind this law may not be readily apparent, it likely aims to discourage loitering or creating a disturbance in public spaces.
Swim in the Ocean at Your Own Risk
While enjoying a day at the beach in Rehoboth Beach, keep in mind that swimming in the ocean at night is not permitted. This law is in place to ensure the safety of beachgoers, as nighttime swimming can be more hazardous due to reduced visibility. So, if you’re planning a late-night dip, it’s best to wait until morning when the lifeguards are on duty.
Changing Clothes in Vehicles Prohibited
If you’re visiting Bethany Beach, be aware that it is illegal to change clothes inside a vehicle while parked on the street (Only In Your State). This law aims to maintain public decency and prevent indecent exposure. If you need to change your clothes while in Bethany Beach, it’s best to find a private location such as a restroom or a designated changing area.
These quirky laws add a touch of uniqueness and sometimes amusement to the legal landscape of Rehoboth Beach. While they may seem peculiar, they are a part of the local culture and history. So, the next time you find yourself in Rehoboth Beach, remember to follow these laws and enjoy your visit to this charming coastal town.
Unusual Laws in Fenwick Island and Bethany Beach
Delaware is known for its unique and sometimes quirky laws, and Fenwick Island and Bethany Beach are no exception. Let’s take a look at some of the unusual laws that exist in these areas.
No Wagon Repairs on the Street
In Fenwick Island, it is actually unlawful to repair a wagon on the street. While this law may seem peculiar in today’s context, it likely originated from a time when wagons were more commonly used for transportation and repairs on public streets could cause obstructions or hazards.
Changing Clothes Inside Vehicles
If you find yourself in Bethany Beach, be aware that it is illegal to change clothes inside a vehicle while parked on the street. Although the reasoning behind this law may not be explicitly stated, it could be related to maintaining public decency and preserving the privacy of individuals in public spaces.
Unique Beachside Regulations
Aside from these specific laws, both Fenwick Island and Bethany Beach have additional regulations in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of beachgoers. These regulations may include restrictions on bonfires, alcohol consumption, and the use of certain equipment on the beaches. It is always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local rules and regulations before visiting these areas to avoid any unexpected surprises.
It’s worth noting that while these laws may seem unusual or outdated, it’s important to respect and adhere to them while in these locations. While some laws may no longer be actively enforced, they still reflect a part of the area’s history and culture.
Delaware has a rich collection of peculiar laws that add a touch of intrigue to the state. From the form-fitting pants ban to the prohibition on serving pretzels without a bouncer present, these laws provide an interesting glimpse into Delaware’s legal history. To discover more strange laws in Delaware and other states, check out our article on strange laws in US states.
Remember, while these laws may bring a smile to your face, it’s important to be mindful of local regulations and respect the communities you visit.
Delaware’s Drive-In Theater Law
Delaware is home to a peculiar law related to drive-in theaters. According to a law passed in 1974, drive-in theaters in Delaware are prohibited from showing “R” rated movies. However, it’s important to note that this law is not enforced and is likely unconstitutional.
The intention behind this law was to address concerns about the visibility of adult films and low-budget exploitation movies from public streets and homes, particularly to protect children from exposure to unsuitable content. At the time, there were debates surrounding the visibility of adult films from drive-in theaters to outside viewers. Various solutions were considered, including the testing of special screens that prevented those not directly in front of it from viewing the movie. Erecting fences was another proposed solution, although it was costly and unattractive (Source).
It’s worth noting that this law is no longer enforced and raises questions about its constitutionality, given technological advancements and evolving social norms that have made it largely irrelevant. However, it remains an interesting part of Delaware’s legal history.
Banning “R” Rated Movies
The Delaware law specifically prohibits the screening of “R” rated movies at drive-in theaters. The aim of this restriction was to prevent the viewing of movies that are not suitable for minors. It is important to note that the definition and classification of movies into different rating categories, such as “R” (Restricted), is determined by the Motion Picture Association, which provides guidelines for age-appropriate content.
Historical Background of Drive-In Theaters
Drive-in theaters gained popularity in the United States in the early 20th century and provided a unique movie-watching experience. These theaters allowed moviegoers to watch films from the comfort of their cars, often under the open sky. Drive-in theaters flourished during the mid-20th century and were a popular form of entertainment, especially for families.
Addressing Visibility and Content Concerns
The Delaware law banning “R” rated movies at drive-in theaters was enacted in response to concerns about the visibility of adult films and the potential exposure of unsuitable content to the public, particularly children. This law was part of a broader effort to regulate the content shown in drive-in theaters in order to protect viewers from offensive or inappropriate material.
It is important to note that this law is no longer enforced and has become largely irrelevant due to advancements in technology, such as improved screen visibility control and the increased availability of content ratings. Modern drive-in theaters often adhere to industry standards and guidelines regarding movie ratings and content suitability.
While the Delaware law banning “R” rated movies at drive-in theaters is an interesting piece of legislation, it is important to remember that it is no longer actively enforced and does not reflect the current practices of drive-in theaters in the state.
Blue Laws and Other Regulations in Delaware
Delaware, like many other states, has its fair share of peculiar laws and regulations. In this section, we will explore some of the notable blue laws and other regulations that exist in Delaware.
Delaware’s Blue Laws
Delaware’s blue laws were historically enforced on Sundays, prohibiting any “worldly employment, labor, or business.” These laws were in effect until the first half of the 20th century but were rarely enforced. However, in 1941, Delaware Attorney General James R. Morford strictly enforced the blue laws, leading to approximately 500 arrests on one Sunday alone. Today, these blue laws are no longer strictly enforced, but they remain a part of Delaware’s legal history.
Horse Racing Restrictions
Delaware has specific restrictions on horse racing. The state prohibits horse racing of any kind on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. This law was passed in 1973 as a liberalization of a previous law that banned horse racing on every Sunday. It reflects the state’s recognition of these religious holidays and their significance to the community (Delaware Campus Library Blogs).
Peculiar Prohibitions and Regulations
Delaware has its fair share of peculiar prohibitions and regulations. One such law, passed in 1974, prohibits drive-in theaters from showing “R” rated movies. The intention behind this law was to address concerns about the visibility of adult films and low-budget exploitation movies from public streets and homes, particularly to protect children from exposure to unsuitable content. However, this law is no longer enforced and raises questions about its constitutionality given technological advancements and evolving social norms (Source).
While these laws may seem unusual or outdated, it’s important to remember that they reflect the historical context and cultural values of a particular time. Delaware’s blue laws, horse racing restrictions, and peculiar regulations are part of the state’s legal landscape, even if their enforcement and relevance have evolved over time.
