Every state has a few laws on the books that make you do a double-take. You read them, blink, and wonder—how did that even become a law? Missouri is no exception. While it’s known for its rich history, barbecue, and scenic Ozark trails, the state also holds a few legal oddities that have left residents and visitors scratching their heads for years.

Some laws were written decades (even centuries) ago and simply never got updated. Others were born out of ultra-specific incidents that lawmakers never expected to repeat. But all of them, in their own quirky way, reflect the unique cultural fabric of Missouri.

If you think your state has strange rules, wait until you hear what’s still technically illegal in the Show-Me State. Below are five of the most unbelievable ones we could find—and if you’re curious for more, we’ve also linked to a list of the weirdest laws in Missouri that’ll keep you entertained.

1. You Can’t Drive with an Uncaged Bear

Let’s start with a wild one—literally. In Missouri, it is illegal to drive with an uncaged bear in your vehicle. This law may sound like something out of a cartoon, but it’s very real.

Why does it exist? Hard to say. Maybe someone thought their pet bear was too well-behaved to be caged, or maybe an actual incident prompted lawmakers to take preventive action. Either way, Missouri’s lawmakers decided to put it in writing.

Now, if you do happen to be transporting a bear through the state, just make sure it’s properly secured. No one wants to explain that ticket.

2. Unnecessary Calling or Loudspeakers Without a Permit

University City’s municipal code specifically prohibits “unnecessary calling with the voice for the purpose of attracting attention by the creation of noise or for advertising purposes,” as well as the use of any loudspeaker or noise-making device without a permit from the city manager. In simple terms, shouting, yelling, or using amplified sound to draw attention in public—without an official permit—is against the law.

Key points from the ordinance:

• Unnecessary vocal calling intended to attract attention or advertise is prohibited.
• Using loudspeakers or similar noise-making devices in public requires a permit from the City Manager.
• The law aims to prevent disturbances and maintain community peace.

This ordinance is enforced alongside other noise-related regulations, and violations may result in citations or fines.

3. Honking Someone Else’s Car Horn Is Off-Limits in University City

Staying in University City for another gem—it’s actually illegal to honk someone else’s car horn. Not your horn. Theirs.

While most people probably assume it’s rude (or confusing) to honk a stranger’s horn, Missouri made it official. The logic might have been rooted in pranks or safety concerns, but it’s one of those oddly specific laws that somehow made it into the books.

So, if you see someone leaning into a parked car to test the horn—or just goofing around—they may be breaking the law.

4. Clotheslines Are Protected by Law

In many parts of Missouri, particularly in HOA-governed neighborhoods, local rules might try to ban residents from hanging laundry outside. But under state law, banning clotheslines is actually prohibited.

Why? The law protects what’s known as “solar drying”—a nod to both sustainability and cost-saving for residents. So, even if a community wants to keep things aesthetically pleasing, they can’t legally stop you from hanging up your laundry to dry in the sun.

It’s one of those laws that actually has a thoughtful purpose—even if it seems strange at first glance.

5. It’s Illegal to Worry a Squirrel in Excelsior Springs

Yes, you read that correctly. In Excelsior Springs, Missouri, there is a law that makes it illegal to “worry a squirrel.” While the term “worry” might be a little ambiguous, it’s generally interpreted as harassing, bothering, or provoking the little critters.

Why this law exists remains a mystery. Maybe the local squirrels have a strong lobbying group. Or maybe, just maybe, someone once got a little too aggressive at the park and ruined it for the rest of us.

Either way, if you see a squirrel in Excelsior Springs—admire from afar.

Final Thoughts

Laws are a reflection of society, and sometimes, society is… well, a little quirky. These Missouri laws might be outdated, oddly specific, or just plain funny—but they all tell stories about the people, the culture, and the moments that shaped the state.

And remember, while they might seem humorous now, many of them were written with a real purpose—whether that purpose still holds up is another matter entirely.