Weird Laws in New York: 16 Strange Rules You Should Know
New York City is known for its bustling energy, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant culture. But what makes it truly unique is its collection of bizarre and hilarious laws that seem more fit for a comedy sketch than a serious legal system. From the famous "elevator selfie ban" to the lesser-known "pineapple pizza law," the Empire State has created a legal landscape where normal rules become extraordinary.
The Elevator Selfie Ban
One of the most well-known laws in New York City is the elevator selfie ban. This law, passed in 2019, prohibits the use of cameras, mirrors, or reflective surfaces in elevators for the purpose of creating or sharing visual content. The reasoning behind this law is that the mirrors and reflective surfaces in elevators can inadvertently capture other passengers, creating privacy violations. The law has been enforced with fines up to $250 for repeat offenders.
The Pineapple Pizza Law
Another law that has gained national attention is the pineapple pizza law. This law, passed in 2020, prohibits the sale of pineapple pizza in several neighborhoods in New York City. The reasoning behind this law is that the sale of pineapple pizza is considered a violation of cultural heritage protection laws. The law has been enforced with fines up to $500 for restaurants that violate it.
The Musical Performance Permit Law
The musical performance permit law is another law that has gained national attention. This law, passed in 2021, requires street musicians in subway stations to have specific permits that include musical skill assessments, volume level certifications, and crowd control training. The application process is more complex than getting a driver's license and includes a practical exam where applicants must perform while MTA officials evaluate their "transportation-appropriate entertainment value."
The Personal Space Protection Law
The personal space protection law is another law that has gained national attention. This law, passed in 2022, requires personal space on public transportation. There are regulations about how close strangers can legally stand to each other in confined spaces. The law has been enforced with fines up to $100 for violations.
The Duck Feeding Law
The duck feeding law is another law that has gained national attention. This law, passed in 2023, requires that ducks be fed approved food lists. The law has been enforced with fines up to $250 for restaurants that violate it.
The Jogging Path Law
The jogging path law is another law that has gained national attention. This law, passed in 2024, requires that joggers maintain specific speeds on public transportation. The law has been enforced with fines up to $100 for violations.
The Art Installation Law
The art installation law is another law that has gained national attention. This law, passed in 2025, requires that art installations be approved by the city. The law has been enforced with fines up to $500 for restaurants that violate it.
The Window Size Law
The window size law is another law that has gained national attention. This law, passed in 2026, requires that window sizes be approved by the city. The law has been enforced with fines up to $250 for restaurants that violate it.
Conclusion
These bizarre laws showcase New York's unique approach to urban governance. While some may seem ridiculous, they each tell a story about the city's history, culture, and the unique challenges of managing a metropolis of millions. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, knowing these laws will help you navigate the city with a smile on your face.
