There are plenty of weird South Carolina Laws out there, such as prohibiting tattooing anyone under 18 and banning fishing with dynamite. While most of these laws are outdated or rarely enforced, they remain on South Carolina’s books. Some seem bizarre, while others have historical roots that offer a glimpse at past customs.
If you have a serious legal issue, such as a personal injury claim, you need guidance from an experienced personal injury lawyer who knows South Carolina law. Even though these archaic laws may never apply to your personal injury case, they highlight how complex the state’s legal code can be and why you need an experienced personal injury attorney to guide you through the legal process. You may be entitled to seek a fair settlement if someone else’s carelessness or negligence harmed you.
Why Do These Laws Still Exist?
Old laws often remain on the books because they were never formally repealed. The process of repealing a law requires legislative action. Lawmakers tend to focus on present-day issues that require immediate attention. Rarely-enforced laws don’t take precedence when there are more important issues to address.
Many archaic laws were passed decades or centuries ago in response to specific circumstances. Even if those situations no longer exist, like outdated social expectations, the laws passed in response can technically remain enforceable.
South Carolina is not unique in this respect, either. Most states have outdated or archaic laws. All you have to do is find them.
Here Are Some Weird South Carolina Laws That Are Still On the Books
South Carolina’s legal code contains some odd relics. Here are a few that are still on the books, even if they rarely if ever make it into a courtroom.
You Can’t Go Fishing with Dynamite
South Carolina law prohibits the use of explosives for fishing. You might think that this is common sense, but it seems that at least one person thought it would be a good idea. Today, this law aims to prevent overfishing and protect the environment. Modern anglers can breathe a sigh of relief – but remember to leave the dynamite at home.
Pinball is Illegal to Play if You’re Under 18
Sorry, aspiring pinball wizards. Believe it or not, S.C. Code § 63-19-2430 makes it illegal for minors to play pinball machines in public places. Passed decades ago in the 1960s, this law was originally meant to discourage gambling and loitering among youth. Today, the pinball law isn’t enforced, although parents might be tempted to use it as an excuse to skip the arcade.
A Railroad May Not Remove Itself from a Town of More Than 500 People
South Carolina law restricts railroads from pulling up tracks and abandoning towns of a certain size – unless the railroad has state permission to do so. This law harkens back to a time when rail service was vital for transporting people and goods.
Silverware and Other Items Can’t Be Bought on Sunday
South Carolina still has “blue laws” that restrict the sale of certain items on Sunday – in this case, silverware. The original idea was to promote a day of rest and church attendance. Fortunately, most store owners today get to decide when they are open for business.
Dancing at a Club Must Halt at Midnight on Saturday Night
If your weekend plans involve dancing the night away, beware that closing time could be earlier than you think. South Carolina law still contains a provision allowing restrictions on dance halls’ operating hours and public amusements on Sundays. These laws were part of the blue laws meant to preserve the Sabbath.
A Permit Must be Obtained to Fire a Missile
Before you fire any missiles, be sure to check in with your local government. State law requires anyone who wishes to fire a missile or rocket to obtain a proper permit. Given modern public safety standards, this one makes more sense – but it’s still an unusual law to see in writing.
You Cannot Keep an Alligator as a Pet
Bad news if you like leathery pets with sharp teeth. Keeping an alligator as a pet is illegal without appropriate state permits. This is generally due to safety and conservation concerns.
You Can’t Give a Tattoo to Anyone Under 18, Even if Their Parents Say Yes
South Carolina law prohibits tattooing minors altogether, even if your parents consent. A tattoo artist must verify by photo I.D. that an individual is at least 18 years old. If a tattoo artist is convicted of violating the law, the individual who received the tattoo may sue the tattoo artist and seek compensation for actual damages and punitive damages. The rule is stricter than in many states, some of which allow minors to get inked if their parents give permission.
Could I Still Be Charged with Violating One of These Weird Laws?
In practice, most outdated laws are rarely enforced. However, they do remain valid under South Carolina law, and there is always a risk of enforcement – especially if you draw attention to yourself by breaking them.
Contact a South Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer in Rock Hill
Weird laws aside, serious accidents occur every day. Some personal injury victims have a right to pursue personal injury claims to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional trauma, psychological injuries, and other losses. Suppose you have suffered harm in a car accident, a slip and fall, or another incident due to someone else’s negligence. In that case, it’s important to contact a personal injury law firm and clarify your legal rights to file a legal claim and seek a personal injury settlement. Our injury lawyers are skilled in negotiating with insurance companies and resolving most personal injury cases without the need for trial.
McKinney, Tucker & Lemel LLC has a long-standing tradition of providing high-quality legal representation to individuals in York and Lancaster counties. Our practice areas include personal injury, criminal defense, and family law. We have decades of experience representing clients in South Carolina and helping injured people take legal action and demand maximum compensation. Our attorneys and staff are recognized for their open communication, compassion, attention to detail, and cost-effective advocacy.
If you or someone you love is dealing with severe injuries or a serious legal issue, speak to an experienced attorney. Visit our contact page to get in touch with our legal team, then take a look at our testimonials to see what past clients have said about the legal services we provided. You deserve experienced legal counsel who understands the law and can guide you through the legal process.
