11 Shocking Things You Thought Were Illegal But Aren’t

It would be impossible to remember every single law, so most people use common sense to determine what is likely to be illegal. Whether you are a completely law-abiding citizen, or you’ve been known to jaywalk every once in a while, you are going to find this list quite compelling.

There are so many things out there that we thought were harmless and legal, but they’re actually not, and vice versa. Here are 11 things that you thought were illegal but actually aren’t.

1. Having a monkey for a pet

Primates including monkeys may be illegal to keep as pets in most places, but it’s not entirely forbidden everywhere. If a monkey is legal to own where you live, permits may be required.

2. Owning other exotic animals

Some states allow people to keep exotic animals as pets like a bear, giraffe, tiger, lion, and more, just as long as they obtain a license.

3. Spanking in school

Corporal punishment, such as slapping, spanking, paddling, etc., in schools, has been permitted in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming.

4. Marrying your cousin

Marrying a cousin is quite taboo in many households, but in 11 U.S. states, this is completely legal. All you have to do is obtain a marriage license to wed your cousin.

5. Underage drinking

While it is illegal to drink alcohol under the age of 18 in public or licensed venues, doing it at home is totally legal. This is due to prohibition laws that do not apply in private spaces.

6. Recording a conversation

Organizations have strict rules when it comes to recording conversations, as does the government, but the public is free to record any call or discussion in person without consent or knowledge.

7. Going topless

While it’s considered indecent by a large amount of the population, most places don’t have any specific law against going topless. Various places explicitly state that it’s 100% fine for women to show their breasts.

8. Driving barefoot

Sometimes you’re in a pinch, and you just don’t have time to put some shoes on. The United States government understands. That’s why it is legal to drive barefoot.

9. Missile Firing

Forget about the question of gun laws in the United States. We think it is downright terrifying that in the state of South Carolina you can fire a missile once you get the right legal permission.

10. Bestiality

In many countries and US states, bestiality is still legal. Shocking, there is no federal law that explicitly prohibits sex between humans and animals.

11. Consuming dog and cat meat

Although selling dog and cat meat is prohibited in the United States, no specific law says people couldn’t eat it. So those who are interested in dog and cat meat, they should prepare it themselves.