The law can be hard to keep up with. As populations grow, new and sometimes revolutionary legislation must be introduced. And then there’s the oddly specific laws that make you think, “there’s definitely a story behind that one.”
Queensland is no stranger to some quirky laws, and here are some that are still in effect, in case you were planning a very whimsical crime spree.
Vacuuming at night
Due Brisbane City Council’s noise restrictions, resident’s may not use vacuuming systems, power tools, leaf blowers, grass cutters or other impact tools after 7pm and until 7am from Monday to Saturday and 7pm to 8am on Sundays and public holidays.
No overgrown yards
Overgrown vegetation or unkempt yards can be subject to fines. The law covers everything from vegetation to large furniture, discarded bottles or containers, car bodies, and other scrap that may be considered unsightly.
Owning a pet rabbit
As many people know, rabbits are considered an invasive species, due to the risk of damage to crops, so you’d need a special permit in order to have a pet rabbit, and the only way to be approved for that permit is if the bunny is being kept for a specific purpose like public entertainment or scientific research.
No roosters in residential areas
Along similar lines, roosters cannot be kept in residential areas in Brisbane, although chickens and other livestock are allowed, with a permit from the Council.
Unattended vehicles must have their windows up
If you are more than 3 metres away from your car, it is considered “unattended” and it must have its windows rolled up and be locked in order to avoid a fine. While this may seem like common sense, many may not realise it is a law and there is an accompanying fine for failing to follow it.
You can’t release helium balloons into the air
Since 2023, releasing any number of helium balloons outdoors has been banned in Queensland, due to the environmental impact and potential littering, although this does not include regular or hot-air balloons.
No goats, pigs or cows allowed on public transport
Animals are not allowed on public transport unless they are an approved guide, hearing or assistance animal, and unfortunately calling a goat an emotional support animal will not fly — or ride the bus.
But you must give way to horses on the road
Putting the cart before the horse is a no-no. Since horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles are allowed on Queensland roads, unless there’s a sign stating otherwise, they must obey all road rules that apply to motor vehicles, including traffic signs. So if a car has to give way, then the horse must as well.
No whipping on the road
Speaking of driving, don’t whip and drive! This law specifies that a person may not carry a whip on any road and they cannot crack it or use it to annoy someone while driving.
No instruments in the car
Neither you nor a passenger can play a loud instrument while in a car, regardless of the type of instrument.
No walking stick swords allowed
Look, we’ve all thought about it, but concealing a sword inside of a walking stick is illegal and not worth the risk! Save yourself the trouble and keep your sword and walking stick separate, like any decent citizen would.