Have You Broken Any of These Eight Weird, Bizarre Laws in Maine?
Look out for Biddeford with some tricky laws still on the books.
It's so weird how there are actual laws for things that seem pretty strange. I know I've broken one, and would probably do it regularly if I went to church regularly. I'm getting ahead of myself. Thanks to Liner Law for breaking down 8 of the craziest laws in Maine still on the books.
1. Bring your shotguns to church
Yes, bring them. Not DON'T bring them. This law was established during the 17th and 18th centuries. The French, English, and Native Abenaki fought over land in what is now Maine. Things got so bad that a law was written that English settlers had to by law carry a gun at all times including during church. Just in case of a raid. I've broken this law the few times I've attended church services. I'm glad that most Mainers break this law.
2. No gambling at the Biddeford Municipal Airport
If you brought chips and cards while waiting for a flight at the Biddeford Municipal Airport, don't break out a poker game. In Biddeford, it's against the law to be intoxicated, disorderly, or engaging in any form of gambling or committing any act that is a nuisance at the airport. I'm not totally against this.
3. Ellsworth laws supersede state and federal laws
In Ellsworth laws in conflict with state or federal ordinances or regulations, the more stringent law shall prevail. That makes no sense to me. It's Ellsworth, so it's not high on my worry list.
4. Don't park in front of Dunkin' in South Berwick
South Berwick has an ordinance that makes it illegal to park a vehicle at any time on Main St. (West) in front of Dunkin’ to a point 25 feet south. It's clear to see why. There are NO parking spots. But then again, caffeine cravings can make people do stupid things. So stupid, that a law had to be passed.
5. Don't sell mercury thermometers in Freeport
Freeport's law says,
A person shall not sell or supply (including online retail) mercury fever thermometers to consumers and patients, except by prescription.
You know the whole thing about mercury and how you really shouldn't be messing with it. Most thermometers don't have mercury anymore, so not a huge issue.
6. Don't feed the deer in Wells, Maine
Good thing the above photo is from Brownville, where they don't have a law on the books not to feed the deer. But don't try doing this in Wells. Only the Commissioner of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife or his/her designee or the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service or his/her designee is allowed to feed or bait deer.
7. No advertisements in cemeteries in Wells
You have got to be kidding me. Can you imagine walking through the hallow grounds of the deceased to visit your grandma and find a big sign for 50% off mattresses?
8. No roller skating on the sidewalks of Biddeford
Biddeford cracking down on the huge issue of roller skating on any sidewalk in Biddeford. It also applies to riding a bicycle. Anyone caught breaking this law will be punished with a fine of no more than $10.00. Okay, now that makes me want to break this law just to see if I would be ticketed! (I won't...I promise).
Okay ya scofflaws, have you broken any of these laws?