Weird laws that are unbelievable but exist in Maine

Photo byDaniel NorrisonUnsplash

Maine is known for its beautiful rocky coastline, lobsters, and the perfect state for outdoor enthusiasts, especially if you enjoy hiking and camping. It is also either the beginning or end of the Appalachian Trail. Maine, also known as the Pine Tree State, has some bizarre laws that exist and some that still do exist.

In Augusta, walking down the street and playing the violin is illegal.

If you live in the town of Wells, it is illegal to advertise in cemeteries. The only placards that are permitted are historical markers. The law is in place to protect all public and private cemeteries from destruction and desecration.

Also, in Wells and York County, it is illegal to feed the deer unless you are the Commissioner of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and are designated to feed the wildlife.

If you live in Biddeford, it is illegal to roller skate on a sidewalk. Not only roller skating but also riding bicycles on any public sidewalk is prohibited. If you violate this law, you can face a fine of no more than $10.00.

Also, it is illegal in Biddeford to gamble at the airport; even if it only involves a game of friendly poker while waiting for your flight, it is unlawful.

No person shall be intoxicated, disorderly, engage in gambling, or commit any act constituting a nuisance at the airport.

If you live in Freeport, it is illegal to sell mercury thermometers.

“A person shall not sell or supply (including online retail) mercury fever thermometers to consumers and patients, except by prescription.”

Maine also takes their Dunkin´ Donuts coffee seriously; in South Berwick, it is illegal to park a vehicle at any time on Main St, in front of Dunkin´ Donuts ¨ to the point of 25 feet south¨. The Dunkin is located at 175 Main Street.

It is illegal to bite your landlord. I hope this is a law in all states, not just in Rumford, Maine.

Some of these laws are bizarre, and some make more sense than others. However, there is one last law that you should be aware of if you plan on visiting Maine. During the 17 and 18th centuries, the French, English, and Native Abenaki fought over the land, now Maine. There were frequent raids and fighting between groups; it got so bad that the English settlers were required to carry a gun to church if needed.