Colorado’s winter wonderland comes with a surprising twist: throwing snowballs is illegal in some parts of the state.
At a Glance
- Many strange Colorado laws found online are misinterpretations or fabrications
- Throwing snowballs is actually illegal in Aspen, Colorado
- Boulder allows insulting police officers unless they request the behavior to stop
- Colorado has several unusual laws related to its snowy climate
- Car dealerships in Colorado cannot sell vehicles on Sundays
Separating Fact from Fiction: Colorado’s Quirky Laws
Colorado, known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes and world-class ski resorts, also harbors a collection of peculiar laws that often leave visitors and residents alike scratching their heads. While many strange laws attributed to the Centennial State are merely urban legends, some genuinely unusual statutes do exist, painting a unique picture of Colorado’s legal landscape.
Contrary to popular belief, not all quirky laws circulating on the internet about Colorado are authentic. For instance, the oft-cited law requiring cats in Sterling to have tail lights is entirely fictional. However, some genuine oddities in Colorado’s legal code do exist, reflecting the state’s distinctive culture and environmental concerns.
Snowball Fights and Other Winter Woes
Perhaps the most famous of Colorado’s unusual laws is the ban on throwing snowballs in Aspen. This regulation isn’t just an outdated statute that’s fallen through the cracks; it’s part of a broader ordinance aimed at maintaining public safety and order. Aspen’s municipal code specifically prohibits throwing snowballs, stones, or other projectiles at vehicles, buildings, or people in public spaces.
“It shall be unlawful for any owner of land to permit weeds in excess of ten (10) inches in height to grow, lie or be located upon such land. It shall be unlawful for the owner of land not to cut, destroy or remove from such land all weeds in excess of ten (10) inches in height” – Section 7-4-2 of Pueblo Colorado’s Code of Ordinances
While this law might seem to put a damper on winter fun, it’s important to understand the context. Such regulations are often put in place to prevent property damage and ensure public safety, especially in areas with high tourist traffic during ski season.
Unusual Urban Ordinances
Colorado’s cities have their own share of peculiar laws. In Boulder, for example, it’s illegal to keep “upholstered furniture not manufactured for outdoor use” outdoors, except when it’s being moved, picked up as trash, or sold. This ordinance, found in Boulder’s General Offenses under Title 5, Chapter 4, 5-4-16, likely aims to maintain the city’s aesthetic appeal and prevent health hazards associated with waterlogged furniture.
“Use Fighting Words” – Boulder’s municipal code, Sec. 5-3-6
In a surprising twist, Boulder’s municipal code allows residents to insult or taunt police officers. However, this freedom comes with a caveat: if the officer requests that the behavior stop, continuing to do so becomes a violation. This unusual law highlights the delicate balance between free speech and maintaining respect for law enforcement.
Statewide Statutes and Local Legends
At the state level, Colorado law prohibits car dealerships from selling vehicles on Sundays. This regulation, outlined in Colorado Revised Statute § 12-6-302, is a remnant of blue laws designed to preserve a day of rest. Interestingly, while vehicle sales are prohibited, dealerships can still offer auto accessories and repair services on Sundays.
In Pueblo, residents must be vigilant about their lawn care. The city’s code of ordinances mandates that weeds must not exceed ten inches in height. This law specifically targets problematic plants like Canada thistle and Russian thistle but exempts flower gardens and vegetable plots from the height restriction.
While many of Colorado’s quirky laws serve practical purposes, others, like Aspen’s ban on firing catapults at buildings, seem to belong more to legend than reality. These unusual statutes, whether actively enforced or not, offer a glimpse into the state’s history, values, and the unique challenges of governing a place known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
As visitors and residents navigate Colorado’s winter wonderland, they should remember that behind every strange law often lies a story of local culture, safety concerns, or historical oddities. While you might have to forgo that impromptu snowball fight in Aspen, the state’s majestic landscapes and vibrant communities offer plenty of legal ways to enjoy the snowy season.
Sources:
- Weird Colorado Laws Found on the Internet (Part IV)
- Weird laws in Colorado, including one against throwing snowballs
