10 Michigan’s Weirdest Laws You Won’t Believe Still Exist

Laws often reflect the culture, history, and quirks of a place. While most laws make sense, some remain on the books despite being outdated or downright bizarre. Michigan, known for its Great Lakes and automotive industry, is also home to some truly strange legal statutes. Here are some of the weirdest laws that still exist in Michigan.

1. It Is Illegal to Sell a Car on Sundays

Why Was This Law Created?

Michigan law prohibits car dealerships from operating on Sundays due to a longstanding blue law meant to encourage a day of rest. This law was initially enacted to protect small businesses and promote religious observance.

Is It Still Enforced?

Yes! Dealerships across Michigan are closed on Sundays, except for those that sell recreational vehicles. So, if you want to buy a car, you’ll have to wait until Monday.

2. Adultery Is Technically a Felony

The Law in Action

Under Michigan Penal Code Section 750.30, adultery is considered a felony punishable by up to four years in prison. While rarely enforced, the law still exists.

Why Does This Law Exist?

This law dates back to the 1800s when moral laws were strictly enforced. While the law remains, modern courts rarely pursue charges for adultery unless it relates to other legal issues like divorce proceedings.

3. You Can’t Be Drunk on a Train

The Legal Statute

Under Michigan law (MCL 436.201), it is illegal to be intoxicated on a train. This law was enacted to prevent disorderly conduct and ensure the safety of train passengers.

Is It Still Relevant?

Although rarely enforced, this law could technically apply to someone who gets drunk on an Amtrak ride through Michigan.

4. It’s Illegal to Tie Your Alligator to a Fire Hydrant

What Does This Mean?

Believe it or not, Michigan has a law that prohibits tying any animal, including an alligator, to a fire hydrant.

Why Was This Law Created?

This statute was meant to keep public spaces clear and ensure emergency services have access to fire hydrants. The alligator-specific mention likely arose from an attempt at humor in legal drafting.

5. Blasphemy Is Illegal

Understanding the Law

Michigan law criminalizes blasphemy, making it illegal to curse God. The law states that anyone found guilty of blasphemy could face fines and imprisonment.

Is This Enforced?

While this law exists, it is not actively enforced and would likely be challenged as unconstitutional under modern free speech protections.

6. It’s Illegal to Serenade Your Girlfriend in Kalamazoo

The Odd Legal Ruling

Kalamazoo has a law that prohibits a man from serenading a woman without her father’s permission.

Why Was This Law Created?

This statute dates back to a time when courtship customs were strictly regulated. Today, it remains an amusing relic of the past.

7. It’s Illegal to Walk a Pig Without a Leash in Detroit

The Reasoning Behind the Law

Detroit has a strict ordinance requiring pigs to be on a leash when in public. This law likely originated to prevent livestock from wandering city streets.

Does This Apply to Miniature Pigs?

Yes, the law does not specify the pig’s size, so even pet pigs must be leashed.

8. You Can’t Swear in Front of Women and Children

The Law

Michigan has an old law that bans swearing in front of women and children. Violators could face a fine or even jail time.

Is This Law Still Enforced?

While outdated, this law was enforced as recently as 1999 when a canoeist was arrested for swearing in front of a group of women and children. The conviction was later overturned as unconstitutional.

9. Mutilating a Coin Is a Crime

What Does This Mean?

In Michigan, it is illegal to alter, deface, or mutilate any coin.

Why Was This Law Created?

This law was enacted to prevent fraud and counterfeiting. Technically, this means you could be fined for flattening a penny on a train track.

10. You Cannot Cheat at Arcade Games

Legal Implications

Michigan law prohibits cheating at arcade games or any game of chance for a prize.

How is This Enforced?

Casinos and arcades take this law seriously. People caught trying to cheat claw machines or gambling games can be banned or even face criminal charges.

Final Thoughts

Michigan is home to some of the most unusual and outdated laws still in existence. While many of these laws remain on the books, they are rarely enforced. However, they serve as a humorous reminder of how legal systems evolve over time.

Did Any of These Laws Surprise You?

Let us know in the comments! And next time you’re in Michigan, make sure to keep your alligator untied and avoid swearing near women and children!