The Weird Laws In Delaware That Tourists Discover Too Late

Delaware might be the second smallest state in America, but it packs some seriously strange rules that can catch visitors off guard. Many of these unusual regulations have been on the books for decades, and while some are rarely enforced today, they technically still exist.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to Rehoboth Beach or exploring the historic streets of Wilmington, knowing these quirky laws might save you from an awkward conversation with local authorities.

1. No Whispering in Church

Believe it or not, whispering during a church service in Rehoboth Beach could technically land you in trouble. This old regulation was designed to maintain respectful silence during worship services, though its origins remain somewhat murky.

Most locals consider this more of a historical curiosity than an actively enforced rule. Churches today focus more on welcoming visitors than policing whispered conversations. Still, it serves as a reminder of Delaware’s deeply religious colonial roots.

When visiting any of Delaware’s beautiful historic churches, basic courtesy goes a long way. Keep your voice down naturally, silence your phone, and respect the sacred space. Whether the law is enforced or not, good manners never go out of style.

This regulation likely dates back to when community standards were stricter and church attendance was nearly universal. Today it stands as a charming piece of Delaware’s legal history that most residents have never even heard about.

2. Flying Over Water Without Sufficient Supplies

Pilots beware: While Delaware law doesn’t require food and water for flights over water, many believe it does. This myth likely stems from general aviation safety advice, which encourages carrying emergency supplies in case of a water landing.

Given Delaware’s extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, the idea makes practical sense. Small aircraft accidents over water can quickly become survival situations. Though not a legal mandate, it’s a smart precaution and often discussed in pilot circles.

Water, non-perishable snacks, and emergency rations should be standard equipment. Safety officials recommend following this guidance regardless of legal requirements. While enforcement is impossible, the principle behind the myth is sound.

Delaware’s position on the Atlantic coast means water crossings are common for pilots. Better to have supplies and not need them than face an emergency unprepared over the cold ocean waters.

3. No Changing Clothes in Your Car

Planning to quickly change into your swimsuit in your vehicle before hitting the beach? Think again. Delaware law technically prohibits changing clothes inside your car, even if you’re being discreet with towels and curtains.

This statute was likely created to prevent indecent exposure and maintain public decency standards. Beach towns like Rehoboth and Dewey Beach have public changing facilities specifically to address this need. Using these designated areas keeps everyone comfortable and legal.

During summer weekends, parking lots near popular beaches fill with families preparing for beach days. Most people change discreetly without issue, but technically the law still applies. Local law enforcement typically looks the other way unless someone is being obviously inappropriate.

The safest approach is using bathrooms or changing rooms at beach pavilions and public facilities. These spaces are designed for exactly this purpose and are usually clean and convenient. Many hotels and rental properties also provide changing areas for guests heading to the shore.

4. Selling Perfume and Cosmetics Requires a License

Entrepreneurs looking to sell beauty products in Delaware face an unusual hurdle. State law requires a special license for anyone selling perfume, cosmetics, or similar beauty items, even at craft fairs or farmers markets.

This regulation stems from consumer protection concerns about product safety and ingredient transparency. Delaware takes cosmetic sales seriously, wanting to ensure products meet health standards. The licensing process involves paperwork and sometimes inspections depending on your business model.

Small business owners and crafters often discover this requirement when setting up vendor booths at popular Delaware events. Wilmington’s Riverfront Market and similar venues require proper licensing documentation. Violating this law can result in fines and removal from vendor spaces.

If you’re visiting Delaware and thinking about selling handmade beauty products, research the licensing requirements first. The Delaware Division of Professional Regulation handles these permits. While the process might seem tedious, it protects consumers and legitimate businesses alike from potentially harmful or mislabeled products.

5. No Pretending to Sleep on a Bench

Here’s a head-scratcher: in Lewes, Delaware, you cannot pretend to be asleep while sitting on a bench. Yes, you read that correctly. Fake sleeping on public seating is technically against local ordinances.

The reasoning behind this bizarre rule remains unclear, though some speculate it was meant to address loitering concerns. Perhaps officials wanted to distinguish between genuinely tired individuals and those occupying benches for extended periods. Either way, proving someone is faking sleep seems nearly impossible.

Lewes is a charming historic town with beautiful waterfront benches perfect for watching boats on the Delaware Bay. Visitors naturally rest on these seats after walking the scenic downtown. Nobody will bother you for taking a genuine nap, but apparently theatrical fake sleeping crosses a line.

This law falls firmly in the category of local lore and quirky legal oddities. Enforcement would be absurd and virtually never happens. Still, it makes for great conversation at Lewes restaurants and adds to the town’s eccentric charm and character.

6. Pawnbrokers Cannot Accept Dentures

Delaware pawnbrokers operate under some specific restrictions, and one of the strangest involves false teeth. State law explicitly prohibits pawn shops from accepting dentures, dental plates, or artificial teeth as collateral for loans.

This regulation likely exists for hygiene and public health reasons. Used dental appliances pose sanitation concerns and have limited resale value. Additionally, dentures are custom-fitted medical devices that serve essential health functions, making them inappropriate as pawnable items.

While this seems like common sense, the fact that it needed to be written into law suggests someone once tried pawning their dentures. Delaware lawmakers decided to close that loophole permanently. Other states have similar restrictions on medical devices and prosthetics.

For visitors exploring Delaware’s antique shops and pawn stores in towns like Dover and Newark, this law represents the state’s attention to unusual details. Pawnbrokers must follow strict regulations about what items they can accept. Dentures, thankfully, will never show up in their display cases under Delaware’s watchful legal eye.

7. Horseback Riding on Highways

Thinking about exploring Delaware’s scenic routes on horseback? State law allows riding horses on public roads, but riders must follow the same traffic rules as motor vehicles. This includes obeying signs, yielding appropriately, and using hand signals when turning.

While not prohibited, riding on busy highways like Route 1 is strongly discouraged due to safety risks. Fast-moving traffic poses serious dangers to both horses and riders, especially during crowded summer weekends.

Delaware offers safer alternatives through designated equestrian trails and horse-friendly communities, particularly in Sussex County. These paths provide enjoyable riding experiences away from vehicles. Several state parks also welcome horseback riders on marked trails.

For visitors interested in horseback riding, numerous stables and guided tour companies operate throughout Delaware. They know the legal riding areas and can provide safe, enjoyable experiences. Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area near the Maryland border offers extensive equestrian trails. Always ride in approved areas and follow traffic laws to stay safe and legal.

8. Marriage by Dare or Jest is Illegal

Getting married as a joke or on a dare might seem harmless, but Delaware law allows courts to void marriages entered into without serious intent. While there’s no specific statute banning joke weddings, the law requires that both parties genuinely consent to a legal marital union.

If one person can prove they didn’t intend to be legally bound, the marriage may be annulled. This protects the institution of marriage and prevents complications from impulsive ceremonies. Delaware’s courts take these matters seriously and can deny or dissolve marriages lacking true commitment.

Popular wedding spots like Rehoboth Beach and the Brandywine Valley attract many couples. Officials may question applications that seem insincere or rushed. For couples genuinely planning to wed in Delaware, the process is simple and welcoming.

Just be sure both parties understand the legal weight of marriage. Annulments can be granted, but they involve court filings, fees, and stress. Delaware encourages lasting unions that begin with clear, mutual intent.

9. No Dancing in Bars Without a Permit

Love to dance when you hear good music? In some Delaware municipalities, bars and restaurants must obtain special entertainment permits before allowing dancing on their premises. Simply playing music doesn’t automatically grant dancing rights.

These local ordinances date back to concerns about noise, capacity limits, and public safety. Dancing establishments face different regulations than quiet dining venues. Fire codes, occupancy limits, and liability insurance all factor into whether a business can legally host dancing patrons.

Popular nightlife areas like Wilmington’s downtown and the beach towns have venues with proper permits where dancing is welcome. However, spontaneous dance parties in unpermitted establishments could technically cause problems for business owners. Most places clearly indicate whether dancing is allowed.

As a visitor, you probably won’t face personal consequences for dancing, but the establishment might. Check the vibe of the place before starting a dance floor. Venues with stages, DJ booths, or obvious dance areas have their permits sorted. Quiet restaurants and low-key pubs might prefer you keep your moves contained to subtle head-bobbing.

10. Selling Dog Hair is Prohibited

Planning to start a unique business selling dog hair for crafts or yarn? Delaware law specifically prohibits the sale of dog hair, making this an off-limits entrepreneurial venture in the First State.

This unusual regulation likely stems from animal welfare concerns and potential fraud issues. Historically, unscrupulous dealers sometimes passed off dog fur as more expensive animal fibers. Delaware lawmakers decided to eliminate the market entirely rather than regulate it.

Interestingly, some crafters do spin dog hair into yarn for personal use, creating keepsake items from beloved pets’ fur. This practice remains legal for personal purposes. The law only prohibits commercial sale of dog hair as a business transaction.

For visitors with creative hobbies, Delaware offers plenty of legitimate craft supply stores and fiber arts communities. Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach both have excellent yarn shops and crafting groups. Just steer clear of any dog hair commerce. Delaware’s many dog-friendly beaches and parks welcome your furry friends, but their shed fur should not become a business commodity under state law.

11. No Unnecessary Horn Honking

That car horn is for emergencies and necessary warnings, not expressing frustration or greeting friends. Delaware law prohibits unnecessary horn honking, defining proper horn use as safety-related situations only.

This regulation aims to reduce noise pollution and maintain peaceful communities. Excessive horn honking creates stress, disturbs residents, and contributes nothing positive to traffic flow. Delaware police can ticket drivers who habitually blast their horns without legitimate cause.

During summer beach traffic on Route 1, tempers can flare when congestion builds. Frustrated drivers sometimes lean on horns, accomplishing nothing except annoying everyone nearby. Delaware officers occasionally enforce this law during peak tourist season when traffic tensions run high.

As a visitor navigating Delaware roads, save your horn for genuine safety needs. Alert distracted drivers, warn of potential collisions, or signal when absolutely necessary. Resist the urge to honk at slow drivers or express road rage. Delaware values its small-town atmosphere and peaceful streets. Unnecessary noise violations can result in fines, so keep that horn usage minimal and meaningful.