10 Halloween Laws So Strict, You’ll Think They’re Made Up

When it comes to Halloween, most of us are used to the usual rules: always stay with a buddy, don’t cross the street without looking both ways, and make sure an adult checks your candy.

But in some parts of the world, Halloween has extra strict laws that might surprise you!

🎃 Here are 10 of the most unusual and strict Halloween laws from around the globe, updated and expanded to include the latest information.

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1. No Wearing a Mask in Public (Walnut Creek, California, USA)

In Walnut Creek, California, it’s illegal to wear a mask in public unless you have a special permit.

This law was put in place to prevent people from disguising themselves and causing trouble.

It’s meant to help law enforcement identify potential troublemakers, but it does make it challenging for anyone wanting to dress up in a mask on Halloween!

However, recent reports suggest that this law isn’t heavily enforced, and many people still wear masks without obtaining a permit.

2. No Masks, Hoods, or Sunglasses if You’re Over 16 (Dublin, Georgia, USA)

In Dublin, Georgia, Halloween enthusiasts over the age of 16 are not allowed to wear masks, hoods, sunglasses, or anything that covers their face in public.

This rule aims to prevent older teens and adults from hiding their identities.

You’re free to dress up at home, but if you’re heading out, you’ll have to show your face.

This law isn’t limited to Halloween either; it applies year-round, so be mindful of any face coverings when out and about.

3. No Trick-or-Treating After 8 p.m. (Bathurst, New Brunswick, Canada)

In Bathurst, New Brunswick, trick-or-treating is strictly limited to between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

If you’re caught outside collecting candy after 8 p.m., you could be fined up to $200 CAD.

This law was introduced in 2005 following complaints about rowdy teenagers causing disturbances late into the night.

Interestingly, this rule also applies to anyone over the age of 16, making it illegal for older teens to trick-or-treat.

The city has even discussed adjusting the curfew, but for now, 8 p.m. is the cut-off.

4. No Trick-or-Treating on Sundays (Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, USA)

In Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Halloween is prohibited on Sundays. If October 31 falls on a Sunday, trick-or-treating is moved to the Saturday before.

The town enforces this law to avoid any conflict with the Sabbath, a religious day of rest for many Christians.

Other towns in the United States, like Ocean City, Maryland, also have similar restrictions, ensuring that Sunday remains a peaceful day for those observing their religious practices.

5. No Silly String Allowed (Hollywood, California, USA)

Hollywood, California, has a very specific Halloween rule: no silly string is allowed between midnight on October 31st and noon the next day.

The law was enacted in 2004 after Halloween celebrations got out of hand, with silly string being sprayed all over the streets, cars, and even people.

Anyone caught using or selling silly string during this period can face a fine of up to $1,000.

This is one rule that the city enforces strictly to keep the streets of Hollywood clean.

6. No Trick-or-Treating for Anyone Over 14 (Chesapeake, Virginia, USA)

Chesapeake, Virginia, takes the “no older kids” rule a step further, making it illegal for anyone over the age of 14 to trick-or-treat.

This law is in place to prevent older teenagers from causing disruptions, and violators can be fined or even face jail time of up to six months 😱

Although city officials have stated they won’t actively arrest teenagers for trick-or-treating, the law remains on the books and is considered one of the strictest Halloween rules in the U.S.

7. No Clown Costumes Allowed (Vendargues, France)

In the small town of Vendargues, France, people aged 13 and older are banned from dressing up as clowns for Halloween.

This rule was enacted in 2014 after a series of incidents involving people dressed as clowns who frightened and even threatened residents.

Although this law initially sparked controversy, it has since been enforced annually to ensure the safety and comfort of Vendargues residents during Halloween festivities.

8. Masks Are Prohibited for Minors After Dark (Belleville, Illinois, USA)

In Belleville, Illinois, anyone under the age of 18 is not allowed to wear a mask after dark unless they’re part of a supervised event or have a permit.

This law aims to prevent teenagers from hiding their identities, especially during Halloween.

While the law doesn’t seem to be rigorously enforced, local authorities recommend parents ensure their children follow this rule for safety reasons.

9. No Halloween Celebrations Allowed (Pietermaritzburg, South Africa)

In Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, Halloween isn’t just restricted — Halloween is banned altogether 😳

Due to concerns about the holiday’s association with the occult, local authorities have actively discouraged Halloween celebrations.

Schools, churches, and community organizations have issued warnings against participating in Halloween events, stating that it goes against the country’s values and traditions.

As a result, you won’t see any trick-or-treaters roaming the streets in Pietermaritzburg.

10. No Halloween Costumes in Public Schools (Walnut, California, USA)

Many schools across the U.S. have implemented rules around Halloween costumes, but the city of Walnut, California, has taken a strict stance.

In this city, students are not allowed to wear any Halloween costumes to public schools, and those who do can face disciplinary action.

The ban is intended to prevent distractions and maintain a focused learning environment, but some students and parents feel it takes away from the fun of the holiday.

My Final Thoughts on These Weird Halloween Laws

Halloween may be a night for fun and frights, but in some parts of the world, strict laws and rules ensure that celebrations don’t get out of hand.

From age restrictions and costume bans to curfews and prohibitions, these regulations show that even spooky festivities have their limits.

So, the next time you head out trick-or-treating, be grateful for the freedom to enjoy Halloween — just make sure to follow the rules, wherever you are.