Most of us have heard of some of the crazy laws that exist in America, but these 10 Italian laws are just as odd.
1. Walk your dogs
The city of Turin cares a lot about the health of man’s best friend. If you don’t walk your dog at least three times a day, you could be fined up to €500. Dying or cutting your dog’s fur oddly can also lead to a pricy fine.
2. Free the fish
In 2005, Rome banned all fishbowls declaring it is animal cruelty to own goldfish. While not all tanks are harmful, fish bowls in particular don’t provide your fish with enough oxygen – contributing to its early death.
3. No sandcastles
Time to kick over all those sandcastles, in Eraclea it’s illegal to build one on the beach. This law was created in 2008 as officials believed sandcastles present danger to the public as they obstruct walking on the beach.
4. Get out of the fountain
If you’re hot, take a dip in one of Italy’s many gorgeous beaches, just don’t swim in the fountains. While it’s not technically illegal to splash around in public fountains, you’ll get a hefty fine of up to €900 if you’re caught.
5. Smile and wave boys
You must smile at all times in Milan if you want to avoid a fine. Unless you’re at a funeral or a hospital, this smiling law was created to rid glumness from the city. But don’t worry too much, this law hasn’t been enforced for a few years.
6. Three’s a crowd
Rome is well-known for its vibrant nightlife, but if you want to go out on the town with your friends, just remember to keep it tame. If you’re caught singing and dancing in a group of over three people, you could be fined €500. Though not really enforced, the law came into action in 2008 in fears of the potential for large protest gatherings that could cause damage to public areas.
7. No noisy shoes
Capri residents value peace and quiet, so to keep their tranquillity, there is a ban on noisy sandals. That means no jandals. So unless you’re willing to pay a fine worth more than your sandals, opt for a more stylish, more silent footwear option.
8. Fines for fakes
Don’t be tricked into buying a fake Louis Vuitton handbag by the beaches in Venice. If you get caught buying a fake bag, prepare to pay a €1000 fine. Illegal street trade in the city of Venice is carefully monitored so don’t risk participating, or you’ll most surely be caught.
9. Not allowed to die
In 2012 a law was passed in the town of Falciano del Massico making it illegal for residents of the town to die. The law was created as the town’s cemetery was full. While the mayor, Giulio Cesare Fava said residents of the town liked the law, two elderly citizens openly disobeyed it.
10. No feeding the pigeons
In the city centre of Lucca, it is illegal to feed the pigeons. This law was created in attempts to keep pigeons from crowding the area and damaging buildings.
