Fort Worth is known for a lot of things — friendly faces, award-winning barbecue, talented musicians, and some unusual laws.
The Lone Star State itself has several strange laws, many of which are outdated and absurd to the modern Texan. But nonetheless, they’re still enforceable.
Here are a few laws that are keeping The Fort funky.
It’s illegal to milk another person’s cow.
If you are thinking of milking someone else’s cow, it is suggested you mooove along. The 1925 Texas Penal Code prohibited the milking of another person’s cow or face a fine of $10.
The law was repealed in 1973, but current Texas law categorizes the act as a theft of personal property if the person doesn’t get permission.
Distributing raw milk within Fort Worth city limits is also illegal unless it’s being sold on the farm it was produced. The farm must have a Grade A Raw for Retail Permit from the state.
It’s illegal to drive in the left-hand lane unless you’re passing a vehicle.
Signs on multi-lane highways that read “left lane for passing only” aren’t just suggestions, they’re the law. The Texas Department of Transportation states that driving 20 mph below the posted speed limit and impeding the flow of traffic in the left-hand lane is punishable by a fine of up to $200.
It’s illegal to drive without windshield wipers, but you don’t need a windshield.
While you don’t legally need a windshield to drive a car in Texas, it is illegal to drive without windshield wipers. According to the Texas Transportation Code, the windshield is not an item of inspection and is not mentioned — but, the windshield wipers are. Maybe that’s why Jeep Wranglers are so popular here.
It’s illegal to cut through a parking lot to avoid traffic.
Cutting through a parking lot to avoid traffic congestion is a violation of the Texas Transportation Code if the vehicle does not stop and park. Crossing through a parking lot is punishable by a fine of at least $25. If it is a repeat offense, the fine could be between $100 to $200.
