11 Weird Laws in France
Quirky French Laws
France is known for its rich history, culture, and of course, its peculiar laws. Let’s take a look at some of the most intriguing and unusual laws in France.
Language Restrictions & Posthumous Marriages
One of the oldest laws in France, the Edict of Villers-Cotterêts issued in 1539, forbids speaking any language other than French in France. Articles 110-111 of this edict are still in effect today and are even used by France’s highest court. So, if you find yourself in France, make sure to brush up on your French language skills to stay on the right side of the law. Speaking any other language may not be welcomed! (Offbeat France)
In France, first cousin marriages are not considered incestuous and are allowed. However, if you plan to marry your aunt or grandfather, you’ll need to obtain authorization from the President of France. While marrying a first cousin is permissible, marrying closer relatives requires special permission. Love truly knows no bounds in France! (Offbeat France)
Odd Marriage Rules & Kissing Ban
French train stations have their own unique set of rules. An unverified law suggests that French kissing is prohibited in train stations. While the reason behind this ban is not entirely clear, it is believed that it may be to prevent delays in train schedules. So, if you find yourself in a French train station, you may want to save the passionate kisses for later. (Offbeat France)
Article 171 of the French Civil Code allows for posthumous marriages. Yes, you read that correctly! Under certain circumstances, if the intention to marry was present before death and authorized by the President of France, a person can be married even after their passing. The marriage would be officially dated the day before the person’s death. Love truly has no boundaries, not even death, in the eyes of French law. (Offbeat France)
These quirky French laws add a touch of uniqueness and intrigue to the country’s legal landscape. From language restrictions to posthumous marriages and even a ban on French kissing in train stations, France never fails to surprise us with its peculiar laws. So, next time you visit France, remember to mind your language, seek authorization for unique marriages, and save the passionate kisses for places outside of train stations!
Curious Legalities
France is known for its rich history and culture, but it also has some peculiar laws that may leave you scratching your head. In this section, we’ll explore two curious legalities that exist in France: the Napoléon pig law and the dress code law, as well as the musical quotas and ketchup ban.
Napoléon Pig & Dress Code
Did you know that it is illegal in France to name a pig Napoléon? This strange law stems from the 19th century and is still in effect today. The law prohibits making fun of Napoléon, thus naming a pig after the historical figure is considered an offense (Expatica). So, if you plan on getting a pet pig in France, you might want to consider a different name!
Another curious law in France surrounds the dress code. According to a law from the 19th century, women who want to dress like men are required to obtain authorization from the police and provide a medical certificate. This law, although outdated, remains on the books (Expatica). While it is unlikely to be enforced today, it highlights some of the peculiarities of French legislation.
Musical Quotas & Ketchup Ban
France has a unique law that pertains to the music played on radio stations. In an effort to promote and preserve French culture and language, a law enacted in 1994 requires that 40% of the music played on French radio stations must be by French artists. This percentage was reduced to 35% in 2016. This law aims to support and showcase French talent on the airwaves (Expatica).
Moving on to a more lighthearted (and condiment-related) law, since 2011, French school cafeterias are prohibited from serving ketchup. This ban on ketchup in schools was influenced by Christopher Hebert, the president of the Association Nationale des Directeurs de la Restauration Municipale. The intention behind this law was to discourage unhealthy eating habits and promote French culinary traditions. So, if you’re craving some ketchup with your fries in a French school, you’ll have to look for an alternative.
France’s curious legalities provide a glimpse into the intricacies of its legal system and cultural norms. From pig names to dress codes, and music quotas to ketchup bans, these laws add a touch of quirkiness to the French legal landscape. While some of these laws may seem unusual, they reflect the historical and cultural context in which they were established.
More Unusual Laws
France is known for its rich history and unique culture, and it’s no surprise that the country has its fair share of weird laws. In this section, we’ll explore a couple of more unusual laws in France that might leave you scratching your head.
Snail Train Tickets & Check Writing
In a bizarre incident that occurred in 2008, a Frenchman transporting his snail harvest on the TGV train was required to comply with a peculiar law. According to this law, snails weighing less than five kilos must have their own train ticket (Expatica). While this law may seem comical, it serves as a reminder of the peculiarities that can sometimes be found in legal systems around the world.
Another interesting law in France relates to check writing. French financial law technically allows individuals to write a check on any blank piece of paper of their choosing, as long as it contains all the necessary information. However, it’s important to note that this type of check may not be accepted by a banker (Expatica). So, while it may be a quirky law, it’s not exactly a practical way to handle financial transactions!
Alcohol at Work & Nakedness Prohibition
In France, nearly all alcohol is prohibited in the workplace. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Wine, beer, cider, and pear cider are allowed during a meal or celebration on the premises (Connexion France). This law reflects the cultural significance of wine in France and demonstrates the country’s commitment to maintaining a healthy and productive work environment.
It might surprise you to learn that being naked in your own home in France can actually be illegal if visible from the street outside. Offenders could face fines ranging from €15,000 to €30,000 and up to a year in prison. However, it’s important to note that this law aims to curb sexual exhibitionism rather than routine nudity (The Local). So, while it’s perfectly fine to be comfortable in your own home, just make sure your privacy is maintained!
These more unusual laws in France serve as a reminder that legal systems can have their fair share of quirks. While some laws may seem odd or even humorous, they often have historical or cultural roots that shape their existence. So, the next time you find yourself in France, be sure to keep these quirky laws in mind, even if they don’t directly impact your everyday life!
Unique Local Regulations
France is known for its rich history and unique culture, and its legal system is no exception. In addition to the quirky national laws we’ve already explored, there are also some interesting local regulations that add to the charm and peculiarity of the country. Let’s take a look at two intriguing local laws in France.
UFO Landing Ban & Mosquito Prohibition
In the southern French town of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, a municipal decree passed in 1954 makes it illegal to fly or land UFOs The Local. While this law may seem out of this world, it remains in place, prohibiting the flying of UFOs over the town or landing one within its boundaries. Whether this law was based on a genuine concern or simply a lighthearted measure, it adds an interesting twist to the local regulations of Chateauneuf-du-Pape.
In the commune of Briollay, mosquitoes are officially banned since 2018 The Local. However, it’s important to note that this ban has had little effect since mosquitoes cannot read. The town hall issued a decree prohibiting mosquitoes in the area, but it’s safe to say that these pesky insects continue to buzz around despite the law. Nonetheless, the mosquito prohibition demonstrates the unique and sometimes humorous nature of local regulations in France.
Eiffel Tower Photography & Ketchup Restrictions
While the Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in France, professional photographers face a legal hurdle when it comes to capturing the tower at nighttime. Taking photos of the Eiffel Tower at nighttime without permission is illegal for professional photographers The Local. This restriction stems from image rights protection laws, which require photographers to obtain a license before capturing the illuminated tower at night. However, it’s important to note that this restriction does not apply to amateur photographers taking personal snapshots.
Unlimited self-service ketchup was banned from school canteens in France in 2011 The Local. The aim of this law was to encourage healthier eating habits among children. While ketchup can still be served with specific meals such as chips, the unlimited option has been prohibited. This unique restriction reflects the efforts to promote balanced and nutritious meals in schools, even down to condiment choices.
These unique local regulations demonstrate the quirks and idiosyncrasies that can be found within the legal system of France. From banning UFO landings to prohibiting mosquitoes, and restricting Eiffel Tower photography to limiting ketchup servings, these laws add to the fascinating tapestry of French culture and its legal landscape.
If you’re intrigued by the weird and wonderful laws from around the world, check out our article on weird laws around the world for more surprising legal oddities.