10 Things You Didn’t Know Could Get You Arrested in Idaho (with Statutes)

Idaho's legal landscape is a fascinating blend of practicality and quirks. Some of the state's laws seem out of place in modern times but are still technically enforceable. Here’s a deep dive into 10 obscure Idaho laws, complete with references to their respective statutes when possible.

1. It’s Illegal to Live in a Dog Kennel

It is against the law for a person to live in a dog kennel or house unless they are, well, a dog. This quirky law seems to focus on maintaining proper housing standards and preventing unsanitary living conditions.
Relevant Code: Specific statute unavailable, but likely under health and safety regulations.

.

2. Cannibalism Is Prohibited Except in Life-or-Death Situations

According to Idaho Statute 18-5003, cannibalism is strictly prohibited, unless it is absolutely necessary for survival. This law provides an unsettling but practical exception for extreme emergencies like being stranded without food.
Statute Reference: Idaho Code § 18-5003 (Mayhem and Cannibalism).atever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

3. Riding a Motorcycle If You’re Over 88 Is Illegal in Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls enforces a peculiar law that prohibits individuals over 88 years old from riding motorcycles. This appears to be a local ordinance rather than a state law, possibly aimed at ensuring road safety for senior citizens.
Statute Reference: Not explicitly listed in the Idaho Code; categorized under local city regulations.

4. Fishing from a Giraffe’s Back Is Prohibited

Boise prohibits fishing from a giraffe’s back, which seems more like a whimsical rule than a practical concern. While this law might have originated to prevent circus animals from being exploited, it’s unlikely to be enforced today.
Relevant Code: Local ordinance, specific statute unknown.

5. Candy Boxes Must Weigh at Least 50 Pounds

Under this obscure rule, any box of candy given as a romantic gift must weigh no less than 50 pounds. This outdated law was likely intended to stimulate the local confectionery industry.
Statute Reference: Local historical ordinance, no longer enforced.

6. No Public Display of a Hypnotized Person

Idaho law prohibits the public display of a hypnotized individual. This statute aims to prevent exploitation or harm during performances.
Statute Reference: Likely found under public safety and performance regulations.

7. Dead Red Law for Cyclists and Motorcyclists

Idaho's "Dead Red" law allows cyclists and motorcyclists to proceed through a red light if the signal fails to detect their vehicle after a reasonable wait. This is legal under Idaho Code § 49-802, provided specific conditions are met.
Statute Reference: Idaho Code § 49-802 (Traffic-Control Signals).

8. Fornication Is Technically a Crime

Unmarried couples engaging in consensual intercourse can be charged under Idaho Code § 18-6603, which defines fornication as a misdemeanor punishable by fines or jail time. Although rarely enforced, it remains on the books.
Statute Reference: Idaho Code § 18-6603 (Fornication).

9. Biting Someone’s Limb Constitutes Mayhem

Under Idaho law, biting off or disabling someone’s limb is categorized as mayhem. This offense is covered under Idaho Statute 18-5001, which outlines violent crimes and their consequences.
Statute Reference: Idaho Code § 18-5001 (Mayhem).

10. Merry-Go-Rounds on Sundays Were Once Illegal

Although this law was repealed in 1939, Idaho’s Sunday Rest laws once banned activities like riding merry-go-rounds to encourage a day of religious observance and rest.
Statute Reference: Historical law, repealed.