7 Quirky New York Laws You Didn’t Know Existed
New York is more than tall buildings and big crowds—if you dig deep enough, you’ll stumble upon some head-scratching laws. Many of these rules are still around, sometimes from decades or even centuries ago.
Luckily for most of us, the following laws rarely affect everyday life, and some have been repealed altogether. But they’re fun to learn about if you enjoy odd facts. Who knows? Maybe you’ll impress someone at your next trivia night!
Going Topless Is Allowed
It might surprise you, but women can legally go topless in public places across New York State where men are also allowed to go topless. This right comes from a court decision called People v. Santorelli (1992). The court ruled that women have the same right as men to be topless, so long as it’s not done for a lewd act.
Of course, it’s not something you see every day. Many people don’t even know this right exists. Even if it’s lawful, there might still be social or local business rules against it, like some beaches or community pools having their own dress codes.
But if you ever come across someone who’s exercising their right to be topless in New York, now you’ll know why it’s allowed.
Adultery Is Still a Crime
You might think adultery is simply a private matter, but in New York, it’s actually a crime. Under Section 255.17 of the New York Penal Law, it’s a Class B misdemeanor if a married person has sexual relations with someone who is not their spouse. This rule has been on the books for a long time, and you’re unlikely to hear about someone getting charged with it nowadays.
But the fact remains: it’s still there.
So, why does such a law even exist in modern times? It’s likely a forgotten about rule that goes back to older ideas about moral behavior and the need to protect the family structure. Even though society’s views have changed, many outdated laws, including this one, linger.
That Old Anti-Mask Law
Everyone loves a good costume party, but once upon a time, New York had a strong stance against wearing masks in public. This law dates back to 1845 when masked gatherings sparked government concerns over rioting and public unrest.
Section 240.35(4) of the New York Penal Law, often called the “anti-mask law,” made it illegal for two or more people to wear disguises in public. It was meant to prevent troublemakers from hiding their faces while causing mischief.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Attorney General Letitia James permanently repealed the anti-mask law. So, if you still like to mask up when walking the streets of New York, it’s no longer illegal to do so.
No Puppet Shows in Windows
It may sound funny, but New York City has a rule that bans puppet shows from being performed in windows where passersby can see them. So, what’s the punishment for breaking such a law? “A fine of not more than twenty-five dollars, or imprisonment for thirty days, or both.”
Even though few New Yorkers know the law is there, it remains on the books.
While it’s rare to see anyone forking over $25 for holding a puppet show, the rule adds a charming bit of history to the city’s legal code. It’s a reminder that even the most unexpected behaviors can end up being regulated in the Big Apple.
Fortune-Telling? Think Twice
Have you ever seen a fortune-teller’s neon sign and thought about stepping in for a reading? In New York, it’s actually illegal to charge money for reading someone’s future unless you say it’s “for entertainment only.”
Section 165.35 of the New York Penal Law classifies fortune-telling as a crime if you claim you have real magical powers to predict someone’s future or find lost items. This rule aims to stop people from taking advantage of vulnerable customers.
Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some fun with tarot cards or a crystal ball while in New York. Many people who practice fortune-telling in the city simply add a sign that says something like “For Entertainment Purposes Only.”
Honking Horns Without Reason
New York City is famous for its traffic jams and noisy streets. However, constantly beeping your horn isn’t just rude—it’s technically illegal unless there’s a real threat or emergency.
The city’s rules say that honking for no reason can lead to a fine. It’s part of New York’s attempt to reduce noise pollution and keep streets just a little quieter.
In practice, the law is tough to enforce because horns often get used out of habit or frustration. Still, it’s on the books, and it’s one more odd twist in the city that never sleeps.
Feeding Deer Can Cost You
Some people in Upstate New York like to toss kitchen scraps in their backyards to feed the deer. But in the Empire State, feeding deer—along with bear and moose—is illegal.
New York State bans feeding these wild animals because it can lead to overpopulation, increased risk of disease spread, malnutrition among the animals, and unnatural behavior of wildlife.
Deer might be common in the NY countryside, but they can create big problems when they gather in huge numbers. So, next time you’re tempted to share your sandwich with a deer that crosses your path, you’ll know why you shouldn’t.
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