Absurd and Unusual Laws in Canada: A Province-by-Province Breakdown
- Sara Santos-Vigneault
- Jul 22
- 4 min read
Canada is known for its vast landscapes, multicultural heritage, and strong legal institutions. Yet, tucked away in municipal codes and provincial statutes are some laws that might surprise, amuse, or even baffle the average Canadian. The absurd and unusual laws in Canada range from outlawing pet rats in Alberta to limiting snowman heights in Prince Edward Island. These regulations often reflect unique regional concerns, historical legacies, or well-meaning intentions that now appear outdated or overly prescriptive. This article explores some of the most unusual and obscure laws in each Canadian province and territory, offering insight into their origins, purposes, and continued presence in modern legal systems.
1. Alberta – Illegal to Own Pet Rats
Alberta is the only rat-free province in North America and has been since the 1950s. The province declared rats as pests under the Agricultural Pests Act, launching a strict rat control program with full-time inspectors, border patrols, and public awareness campaigns. It’s illegal to own, transport, or breed rats—even for pet purposes. This rule was created to protect Alberta’s grain and agriculture sectors from the destruction associated with rat infestations. The campaign "Rat on Rats!" is a popular example of community cooperation in pest management.
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2. British Columbia – Noisy Parrots Can Get You Fined
In Oak Bay, British Columbia, a peaceful residential community, noise bylaws prohibit prolonged animal noise—including parrots. The law was created to address resident complaints about persistent animal sounds disrupting neighborhoods. Beyond parrots, Oak Bay recently tackled loud air-source heat pumps and increased enforcement after a rise in dog attacks.
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3. Manitoba – Exotic Pet Restrictions in Winnipeg
Winnipeg’s Responsible Pet Ownership By-law bans ownership of various exotic species, including large snakes, cougars, and monkeys. Introduced to ensure public safety and humane treatment of animals, this law has evolved with ongoing consultations involving veterinarians and welfare experts. Proposed updates could strengthen these protections even further.
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4. New Brunswick – No Reptiles in Public
Fredericton’s Animal Control Bylaw prohibits bringing snakes and other reptiles into public parks or sidewalks. Originating from past incidents where snakes caused public panic at festivals, the bylaw is intended to ensure comfort and safety in communal areas.
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5. Newfoundland and Labrador – No Cattle on City Streets After 8 AM
In St. John’s, a historic bylaw prohibits cattle from being driven through city streets after 8 a.m. Rooted in colonial times, this law reflects a period when livestock was common in urban areas. Though unenforced today, it remains on the books as a curious legacy of rural-urban overlap.
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6. Nova Scotia – Taxi Drivers Must Dress Professionally in Halifax
Halifax’s taxi bylaw requires drivers to maintain a professional appearance, including a ban on T-shirts and unkempt clothing. Established to improve customer service and elevate industry standards, non-compliance may lead to warnings or license suspension.
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7. Ontario – Petrolia Once Banned Whistling and Singing
Petrolia’s bylaw once prohibited yelling, shouting, hooting, whistling, or singing at any time. Originally intended to control street advertising and disruptive gatherings, it became notorious for its potential to limit personal freedoms. The backlash led to its revision, limiting the restriction to commercial and amplified noise.
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8. Prince Edward Island – Snowman Height Guidelines in Souris
Souris once issued winter safety guidance recommending that snowmen be no taller than 30 inches on corner lots. Although not formally legislated, the intent was to prevent visibility hazards at intersections. The suggestion has become a lighthearted example of over-regulation.
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https://www.remiellaw.ca/post/the-curious-case-of-snowmen-regulations-in-souris-prince-edward-island
9. Quebec – The 'Pastagate' Language Police Incident
In 2013, Quebec’s language office (OQLF) told Buonanotte, a Montreal restaurant, to replace “pasta” with the French “pâtes” on their menu. The incident gained international media coverage and was ridiculed as “Pastagate.” It led to resignations and scrutiny over Quebec’s language enforcement. Rooted in Bill 101, this law mandates French as the predominant language in commercial settings.
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10. Saskatchewan – No Public Swearing in Saskatoon
A longstanding bylaw in Saskatoon forbids swearing in public spaces, especially near churches and schools. It was created to uphold public decency but has raised questions about compatibility with free speech rights under the Canadian Charter.
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11. Northwest Territories – Dog Limits in Hay River
Hay River limits households to a maximum of three dogs without a permit. This policy was created to manage stray populations and improve safety in smaller communities. Dog attacks and overpopulation have prompted the need for stricter local controls.
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12. Nunavut – Alcohol Permit System
Nunavut has some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in Canada. In many communities, residents must apply for permits to purchase alcohol, and some towns are completely dry. The restrictions were implemented to reduce alcohol-related harm in isolated communities.
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13. Yukon – Sled Dog Noise Bylaw in Whitehorse
Whitehorse, known for its sled dog heritage, also has bylaws restricting animal noise after certain hours. This arose from neighborhood complaints about barking in urban areas. Balancing respect for tradition with residential peace, the city limits kennel sizes and sets quiet hours.
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These unusual laws may raise eyebrows, but they often have deeply rooted origins tied to local history, public safety, or cultural values. What might seem absurd today—like prohibiting pasta on a menu or snowmen over two feet tall—may have once addressed a genuine concern, whether linguistic pride, pedestrian safety, or community peace. These laws also remind us that legislation is not static. It evolves alongside social norms, economic needs, and technological advancements.
Understanding these laws provides not just entertainment, but also a reflection on how Canadian communities define order, identity, and public interest through law. Some of these regulations continue to be enforced; others sit dormant as relics of another era. Either way, they form part of the legal patchwork that gives Canada its unique regional character and offer a light-hearted yet enlightening glimpse into municipal governance across the country.
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