When you think of Oregon, you might imagine misty coastlines, lush forests, and craft beer in Portland. But beneath its eco-conscious exterior and quirky charm lies a treasure trove of strange, outdated, and downright hilarious laws.

These oddities may not be actively enforced today, but they’re still on the books—giving the Beaver State its own brand of legal eccentricity. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, these weird Oregon laws will have you scratching your head (and probably chuckling too).

1. It’s Illegal to Go Hunting in a Cemetery

Yes, you read that right. According to Oregon law, hunting in a cemetery is prohibited. While it might seem obvious that you shouldn’t be firing off rounds in a resting place, this law exists in multiple counties, likely as a reaction to past incidents. Whether someone was chasing deer among headstones or it’s just an overly cautious rule, the law still stands.

2. No Whispering Dirty Things in Your Lover’s Ear During Intimacy

In one of Oregon’s most eyebrow-raising legal quirks, it’s technically illegal to whisper “dirty” things into your partner’s ear during lovemaking. While this law is rarely, if ever, enforced, it raises a lot of questions: Who defines what counts as “dirty”? Who’s listening? It’s likely a remnant from more conservative times, but it certainly adds a comical touch to the state’s legal code.

3. You Can’t Pump Your Gas (At Least Not Everywhere)

Oregon is one of only two states (alongside New Jersey) where full-service gas stations are the norm—though this is changing. In some rural counties, self-serve is allowed, but in many parts of the state, it remains illegal to pump your own gas. This law was originally passed to protect gas station attendants’ jobs and ensure safety. But to many out-of-staters, the idea of being forbidden to pump gas is almost as strange as being required to tip someone for doing it.

4. No “Test of Physical Endurance” Between Two People

Oregon law prohibits organized events involving physical endurance contests between two people. So, if you’re thinking about hosting a backyard slap-fight or an official staring contest, think again. While the exact motivation behind this law is unclear, it’s possible that it stems from concerns about injuries or unregulated “tough guy” competitions that once got out of hand.

5. Ministers Can’t Eat Garlic or Onions Before Delivering a Sermon

This fragrant regulation reportedly exists in Marion County. Ministers are not allowed to eat garlic or onions before delivering a sermon. While it’s uncertain how strictly this was ever enforced (and how anyone would check), the intent seems to be keeping sermons fresh—literally. Bad breath, it seems, is a spiritual offense in some parts of Oregon.

6. It’s Illegal to Box with a Kangaroo

In Portland, it’s illegal to engage in a boxing match with a kangaroo. While this might sound like a fever dream, the law likely dates back to vaudeville-era performances or traveling circuses where humans boxed animals as entertainment. Oregon’s decision to outlaw it is a small but meaningful step in animal welfare, even if it sounds hilariously specific.

7. Canned Corn is Not Considered a Vegetable in School Lunches

Here’s a fun fact with dietary implications: According to some Oregon school lunch regulations, canned corn does not qualify as a vegetable. It’s categorized as a grain instead. This rule might not be “weird” in a legal sense, but it’s certainly odd enough to make students and parents do a double-take when planning balanced meals.

8. It’s Illegal to Whistle Underwater

Some cities in Oregon have laws so quirky they could pass for dad jokes. Case in point: it is technically illegal to whistle underwater. Of course, this is practically impossible to do, so it’s unclear what behavior the law is actually meant to regulate. It may be a humorous placeholder or an outdated ordinance that no one ever bothered to repeal.

9. Ice Cream Must Be Served Upright

In some local jurisdictions, laws prohibit ice cream cones from being served upside-down. While the reasoning is vague, it may be related to sanitation, food safety, or just someone taking “food presentation” very seriously. Regardless, it sounds like a rule better suited for a culinary school than a legal code.

10. No Babies on the Running Boards of Cars

Back when vehicles had running boards—those step-like platforms along the side—it was apparently common enough for people to place children there that Oregon passed a law banning it. The rule remains on the books, reminding us how much times (and car safety standards) have changed.

Final Thoughts

Oregon’s legal oddities offer a window into the past and highlight the state’s colorful character. While most of these laws are relics, they reflect real concerns, odd traditions, or comical overcorrections from earlier eras. They also give us something to smile about—reminding us that even the most serious institutions, like state law, can have a sense of humor. So next time you’re in Oregon, enjoy the beauty, sip the coffee, and remember: don’t box a kangaroo or whisper sweet nothings—at least not too dirty.