RHODE ISLAND - Rhode Island, the smallest state in the union, is known for its oversized personality, legendary "coffee milk," and a landscape where you're never more than a few miles from the ocean. However, beneath its coastal charm lies a unique set of laws and linguistic quirks that might catch even a lifelong New Englander off guard. From the gas pump to the "blue laws," here are the things you cannot do in the Ocean State.
1. You Can't Spell "Liar" (Apparently)
While most states struggle with massive words like beautiful or maintenance, Rhode Islanders have a surprisingly frequent struggle with a four-letter word.
- The Culprit: According to multiple analyses of Google search trends, "liar" is the most frequently searched "how to spell" word in Rhode Island.
- The Other Contender: In recent years, "separate" has also topped the list. The common mistake is writing it as "sep-er-ate" instead of using an 'a' in the middle.
2. You Can't Sell a Toothbrush and Toothpaste Together on Sunday (In Providence)
This is one of the most famous and bizarre "blue laws" still technically on the books in the state capital.
- The Rule: In the city of Providence, it is technically illegal for a shopkeeper to sell a toothbrush and toothpaste to the same customer on a Sunday.
- The Vibe: Like many archaic laws, this was intended to discourage commerce on the Sabbath, though you are unlikely to find a CVS employee today who will refuse to ring up your dental supplies.
3. You Can't Challenge Someone to a Duel
While you might feel slighted by a local's driving or their opinion on the best clam shack, don't reach for your white glove.
- The Penalty: In Rhode Island, it is strictly illegal to challenge someone to a duel—or even to accept a challenge to a duel.
- The Consequence: Even if the duel never takes place, the act of planning or provoking one can result in significant legal trouble. If you actually kill someone in a duel in RI, you are looking at life imprisonment.
4. You Can't Pass on the Left Without Making Noise
If you are planning to overtake another driver on a Rhode Island road, the law technically requires you to announce your arrival.
- The Statute: State law requires drivers to give an audible signal (honk your horn) before passing a vehicle on the left.
- The Reality: While almost universally ignored in modern traffic, failing to "beep" before you pass is technically a ticketable offense.
5. You Can't Drink Lemonade with a Straw (The Unwritten Rule)
While not a legal statute, this is a cultural law that carries a heavy social penalty.
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The Legend: When visiting a Del's Frozen Lemonade stand, you cannot use a straw. * The Proper Way: The authentic Rhode Island experience involves "shaking" the cup to bring the frozen lemon bits to the top and drinking it directly from the rim. If you ask for a straw, you've immediately identified yourself as a tourist.
6. You Can't Keep Your Christmas Tree Up Past January 14th
If you like to keep the holiday spirit alive well into the new year, be careful in certain Rhode Island municipalities.
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The Ordinance: There are old local laws in place that make it a finable offense to keep a Christmas tree in your home or on your property after January 14th. This was initially enacted as a fire safety measure for dried-out evergreen trees.
7. You Can't Use Your Water on "Even" Days (In West Warwick)
Depending on where you live, your lawn-care schedule is strictly regulated by the calendar.
- The Ban: In West Warwick, there is a standing ordinance that prevents residents from watering their lawns or gardens on even-numbered days of the month.
- The Goal: This is a long-standing water conservation measure that ensures the local supply isn't overtaxed during peak summer months.
Rhode Island's quirks—from its "hot wieners" to its bizarre dental laws—are part of what makes the Ocean State so distinctive.
