Massachusetts has some of the most historic roads in the U.S., but did you know the state also has some truly bizarre traffic laws? While some of these rules date back to older times, they are still technically in place today. From odd honking restrictions to strange parking rules, here are seven weird Massachusetts driving laws that might surprise you.

No Driving with a Gorilla in the Backseat

Yes, this is a real law! In Massachusetts, it is illegal to drive with a gorilla in the backseat of your car. While this law seems ridiculous, it was likely put in place for safety reasons—both for the driver and the animal. However, there’s no mention of whether a gorilla is allowed in the front seat!

It’s Illegal to Drive with a Clown in Your Car

Massachusetts has a unique law that makes it illegal to drive with a clown in your car. While this rule isn’t strictly enforced, it likely originated from concerns about pranks or distractions on the road. So, if you ever plan to give a ride to a clown, you might be breaking the law!

You Must Have Your Headlights On—Even During the Day

Massachusetts law requires drivers to turn on their headlights whenever they are using windshield wipers. This means that if it’s raining—even lightly—you must turn on your headlights, no matter the time of day. This rule helps improve visibility, but many drivers forget about it and risk getting a ticket.

No Honking After 9 PM Near Restaurants

If you’re in Massachusetts and feel like honking your horn, make sure it’s not near a restaurant after 9 PM. This strange law was likely created to prevent noise disturbances for diners, but it’s unclear how strictly it is enforced.

No Driving with an Unsecured Load of Hay

Massachusetts has an old law that prohibits drivers from transporting an unsecured load of hay. This rule was likely created when horse-drawn carriages were common, but it still exists today. While most drivers don’t carry hay in modern times, the law could still technically apply to any loose cargo in a vehicle.

You Can’t Park Too Close to Another Car

In Massachusetts, it is illegal to park within one foot of another car. This law is meant to ensure that drivers have enough space to enter and exit their vehicles. However, in crowded cities like Boston, finding a spot with that much space can be quite a challenge!

No Driving in a Funeral Procession—Unless You’re Part of It

It is illegal in Massachusetts to cut into a funeral procession while driving. This law was created to show respect for those mourning a loved one. If a funeral procession is passing, other drivers are expected to yield and allow it to continue without interruption.

Why Do These Laws Exist?

Many of these unusual laws were created decades ago when road safety and traffic conditions were different. While some, like the headlight rule, still serve a practical purpose, others—like the gorilla and clown laws—seem more like outdated legal relics.

Should You Be Concerned About These Laws?

Most of these laws are rarely enforced, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist. While you probably won’t get pulled over for having a gorilla in your car, other rules—such as the headlight and funeral procession laws—are still important to follow to avoid fines.