7 Strange Real Estate Laws in the U.S.
We have laws to protect us, our rights, and our property. But sometimes, the laws seem a little bit out-of-place, unnecessary, or completely useless. If you comb through local and state real estate laws in the United States, you’ll find a variety of laws that don’t make a lot of sense.
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- No Upholstered Furniture Outside
In Boulder, Colorado, you cannot have any upholstered furniture outdoors. Yes, that includes your chaise lounge, couch, and padded chair. So, if you’re planning to move to Boulder for that laid-back vibe and unlimited ski opportunities, make sure you’re not too attached to your outdoor furniture.
- You Can’t Have Too Many Female Roommates
A woman in Arkansas gives birth to her fifth baby, wondering if she and her husband will get the boy that they want to complete their family. It’s…another girl! Unfortunately, in Arkansas, six or more females cannot live in the same house—no matter what their relationship is. This old law was put in place to discourage brothels, and forcing women to live apart seemed like an easy way to do it. Today, the brothels are (mostly) gone, but this law is still on the books in Arkansas and Missouri. It’s unclear whether or not the law is actually enforced.
- No More Than Two Toilets in a Building
If you’ve ever imagined moving to a tiny island and starting over, Waldron could be the place for you. Tucked between Washington state and Canada, this island has only seen mild development since people started living on it. That’s why there’s a law that no building may have more than two toilets. They want development to occur at an appropriate pace on the island and avoid misusing its resources. There’s no ferry service to and from the island, so be ready to bring your own airplane or boat when you move in.
- Skip the Snowball Fight
We’re back to Colorado with this next law. In Aspen, Colorado, it is illegal to throw snowballs at public or private property. It is also illegal to throw snowballs at any person on their own property or in public. So much for that quintessential experience—although it’s hard to imagine the police rounding up a group of kids for having a snowball fight.
- No Home Improvements on Sunday
If you’ve ever been woken up early on your only day off because of an overzealous DIYer, you’re not alone. Lots of states have laws against the use of certain home improvement tools, either banning them completely or limiting their use on certain days. Sunday is the most common day for DIY bans.
In New Jersey, New York, New Mexico, and Hawaii, you have to hold off on the projects on Sunday to avoid irritating your neighbors. In New Jersey, the law specifically prohibits house painting and roofing. Hawaii forbids you from using a leaf blower on Sundays, and people in Santa Fe cannot use their lawnmowers on Sunday.
- From Squatters to Homeowners
Property owners in California, beware of squatters. If squatters live in a property for five years and act like owners, they can actually become the owners. How do you “act like an owner?” You pay property taxes, HOA fees, and other related expenses. This is why it’s important to keep an eye on your vacant property and avoid letting it sit too long.
- Stop Stealing Public Buildings!!
Rockville, Maryland has made it illegal to remove public buildings. So, the next time you feel like walking away with the city library, please avoid the temptation. In reality though, this law is in place mainly to prevent people from taking fencing, gates, and other structures off of public property.
Choose Evans Law for Your Legal Needs
If you’re ready for your next real estate transaction, it’s time to talk to the team at Evans Law. Set up a meeting with us now by calling us at 410-626-6009 or getting in touch with us online. We’ll make sure that your transaction follows all laws, strange and non-strange alike.