From the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest to its quirky, independent cities, Oregon is known for its scenic beauty and unique culture.

But beyond the hipster coffee shops, legal cannabis, and endless hiking trails, the Beaver State hides a treasure trove of bizarre and outdated laws that are guaranteed to make you do a double-take—and maybe even laugh out loud. While some may have been passed with the best intentions, others leave Oregonians scratching their heads to this day.

Let’s take a look at some of the weirdest laws in Oregon that still exist, technically speaking, and explore the curious stories behind them.

1. No Whistling Underwater in Portland

Yes, you read that right. In the city of Portland, it’s technically illegal to whistle underwater. While it’s not clear who managed to pull off this near-impossible feat—or why it needed to be outlawed—it appears to be one of those old laws written during a time when lawmakers were determined to cover every imaginable scenario. Is it enforceable? Probably not. But it sure makes for a good laugh.

2. You Can’t Pump Your Own Gas—In Most Places

For decades, Oregon was one of only two states in the U.S. where self-service gas stations were illegal. A 1951 law banned drivers from pumping their own fuel, claiming it was safer and better for service workers. While parts of the law have since changed—allowing self-service in rural counties—many stations still require an attendant to do the job for you. It’s a strange experience for out-of-state drivers who instinctively reach for the nozzle.

3. No “Test of Physical Endurance” Between Humans and Animals

In Oregon, it’s illegal to conduct a “test of physical endurance” between a human and an animal. This strange law may have been passed to prevent events like bear wrestling or similar contests, which were once considered entertainment in certain parts of the country. While it sounds funny now, it reflects a time when the state started taking animal cruelty seriously—just in a very oddly worded way.

4. Weddings Must Not Be Held in Ice Rinks

According to some local ordinances in parts of Oregon, getting married on an ice skating rink is forbidden. The reasoning is unclear, but one might speculate that slippery surfaces and formalwear just don’t mix. Either way, if your dream was to say “I do” while gliding across the ice in skates, you might want to check your county laws before booking the rink.

5. Dishes Must Be Drip-Dried in Salem

The city of Salem once had a quirky health code rule that prohibited drying dishes with a towel—dishes had to be drip-dried instead. The law was aimed at improving hygiene in public kitchens, but the image of inspectors scolding someone for towel-drying a spoon is pretty comical. Though rarely enforced today, the rule technically still exists in some form.

6. Don’t Eat Ice Cream on Sundays While Standing on a Street Corner

This one might sound made up, but there are reports of old ordinances in Oregon cities, including Eugene, that prohibit eating ice cream on Sundays while standing on a street corner. Why? Possibly an outdated attempt to uphold the Sabbath or discourage loitering. Regardless, the idea that someone might be breaking the law by enjoying a scoop of vanilla while chatting with friends is hilarious.

7. It’s Illegal to Use Canned Corn as Fishing Bait

In some Oregon waters, especially around specific trout zones, using canned corn as bait is prohibited. While this might seem like a culinary crime (trout do seem to like it), wildlife officials found that it can be harmful to fish and the environment. Still, the idea of a fisherman being ticketed for corn crimes seems oddly specific.

8. Babies Can’t Be Sold—Obviously

Believe it or not, Oregon has a very direct law that states: “It is unlawful to sell a child.” While this seems more like common sense (and federal law covers it anyway), the fact that the state had to spell it out in legal text is both alarming and a little ridiculous. It’s the kind of law that makes you wonder what prompted it in the first place.

9. No Juggling Without a License in Hood River

Street performers in Hood River may want to double-check city regulations, because juggling in public without a permit is prohibited. While it may be aimed at keeping sidewalks clear or maintaining order, it also sounds like the setup to a clown joke. If you’re planning on showing off your juggling skills downtown, better get that paperwork in order!

10. Don’t Box With a Kangaroo

While not Oregon-specific, some interpretations of state animal cruelty laws have been stretched to suggest that boxing with a kangaroo could be a punishable offense. While kangaroo boxing isn’t exactly a common sport these days, the law speaks to a broader ban on exploiting animals for bizarre spectacles. And frankly, the mental image is bizarre enough on its own.

Final Thoughts

Oregon’s legal code is full of unusual, outdated, and often hilarious laws that reflect a very different time—and a truly unique culture. While many of these are rarely enforced (if at all), they continue to capture the curiosity and laughter of residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re exploring Portland’s weirdest corners or just passing through the countryside, these laws are a reminder that even serious governments have their goofy moments.

Would you want to break one of these laws just for the fun of it? Just don’t try whistling underwater—Portland’s watching.