Weird Laws in South Carolina

South Carolina is a state rich with history and charm and – as it turns out – some really weird laws. Here we’ve compiled some of the many statutes that would make you scratch your head and wonder how they ever came to be. Although many of these laws aren’t actively enforced today, they’re still on the books.

Let’s look at some of these bizarre South Carolina laws, their origins, and how breaking one could land you in hot water.

Pinball is illegal if you’re under 18

Imagine this – you’re a teenager strolling down a South Carolina boardwalk, and you spot a pinball machine. Harmless fun, right? Think again. According to Section 63-19-2430 of the South Carolina Code, it’s unlawful to play pinball if you’re under eighteen. Yup, pinball.

This peculiar law dates back to the early days of pinball when it was still considered a form of gambling. While this law might seem outdated in today’s world of smartphones and online gaming, technically, a minor playing pinball could face legal consequences.

If someone were ever charged with this law, it would be possible to make a pretty strong argument that it’s irrelevant in modern times.

No insincere marriage proposals

Here in South Carolina, making a false promise of marriage to seduce someone isn’t just unethical – it’s against the law. Section 16-15-50 states that a man over the age of 16 who, by deception or promise of marriage, seduces an unmarried woman is guilty of a misdemeanor. A conviction could result in a fine or up to one year in jail.

While it’s rare for this law to be invoked today, it does serve as a reminder of how morality and the law often intersected in South Carolina’s history.

Defending against an allegation of violating this antiquated law might mean arguing that no deception occurred or that the relationship was consensual and free of misrepresentation.

Dancing stops at midnight on Saturdays

Are you a night owl who loves dancing? If so, South Carolina has some restrictions you should know about. Title 52 states that dance halls must close their doors at midnight on Saturdays, and they can’t reopen until midnight on Sundays. Violators could face fines ranging from $10 to $100 or even up to 30 days in jail for repeated offenses.

This law most likely stems from religious traditions that emphasize Sunday as a day of rest. Additionally, the law prohibits dance halls from being located within a quarter-mile of a church or cemetery, which is oddly specific.

If someone were charged under this law, it would be interesting to see its enforceability in today’s world, where societal norms have evolved and businesses operate under different expectations. Still, it’s a good reminder to check the clock to see if you’re out dancing too late in the Palmetto State.

You can’t buy silverware on Sundays

Planning on doing some shopping for kitchenware on a Sunday? In South Carolina, you might be out of luck. Title 53 prohibits the sale of some very specific items, including silverware, on Sundays. The law also extends to clothing (except swimwear and undergarments), tools, appliances, and even musical instruments.

This law is rooted in old “blue laws” designed to preserve Sunday as a sacred day. While many blue laws have been repealed or are no longer enforced, remnants like this one are still hanging around. The stakes are higher for businesses – employing someone to work on a Sunday could also result in penalties. However, the law makes exceptions for “work of necessity or charity,” which leads to some flexible interpretations.

Tasked with defending against this law, a South Carolina defense attorney may argue that these laws are vague and outdated, making them difficult to enforce in court.

Why do these laws exist?

South Carolina’s quirky laws reflect its history, culture, and societal norms when they were enacted. Most of these statutes were written to address moral concerns, religious observances, or specific issues that were only relevant decades ago. Today, they serve more as curiosities than bona fide laws.

What if I’m charged?

Even though most of these laws aren’t actively enforced, it doesn’t mean they’re irrelevant. For example, an overzealous police officer or a misunderstanding could lead to someone being charged under one of these outdated statutes. That’s where your South Carolina criminal defense attorney comes in.

These laws might seem laughable, but they raise important questions about the legal system. Why do outdated laws remain on the books? Should states periodically review and repeal statutes that no longer serve any purpose to the public? These questions matter. Laws like these can create confusion, waste resources, and even undermine public trust in the legal system.

Have you been tangled up in one of South Carolina’s bizarre laws? Whether it’s an obscure law or a more serious matter, The Law Offices of A. Randolph Hough is here to help. A criminal defense attorney can protect your rights, explain your options, and fight for the best possible outcome. Your case deserves dedicated advocacy, no matter what law you’re accused of breaking. Contact or call to schedule a confidential consultation today. Proudly serving all of South Carolina.