Jamaica has a few outdated laws found in the Towns and Communities Act that may seem weird to citizens of the 21st Century.
For example, did you know that it is illegal to be found drunk and lying on the streets of Jamaica? There are also many other laws that could be considered weird, having been established in 1843.
The Towns and Communities Act is used to maintain public order, prohibiting actions that can cause nuisances in public spaces.
Just last year, the Government had stated its intention to slowly change a few of these dated laws, keeping those that are relevant to modern Jamaica.
But, until then, these weird laws still remain. Here are a few more things you would be surprised to know are illegal in Jamaica, with penalties between $4 and $1,200.
1. It is illegal to empty a privy between the hours of 4 am and 10 pm
A privy is an old-fashioned term for an outdoor bathroom. Back in the days, people would use outdoor toilets or bedpans.
Since they did not have sewer systems or modern toilets, they had to empty the contents manually in the early morning or late afternoon. But emptying them anytime between 4 am and 10 pm is illegal.
2. It is illegal to shake or beat a mat after 8am
Yes! You read that correctly.
This rule is applicable to rugs, mats and carpets, with the exception of door mats.
3. It is illegal to bury someone after 6pm
This law is more popular than the rest and it is also still observed today.
If a burial does not commence before 6 pm, the funeral will have to be pushed to the next day.
4. It is illegal to have a pigsty at a main road
Back in the day, farming was one of the main sources of income for people in Jamaica, and this continues to be the case for a few.
A pigsty usually carries and unpleasant scent that many wish to avoid if necessary. If a pig is let loose, they can also cause nuisance to those in public spaces.
As such, it is illegal to have a pigsty at a main road that is not shut off with a wall or fence.
5. It is illegal to sell rope after 6 pm
Yup, that’s right! So no matter what you do, always ensure that you purchase your rope before 5:59 pm.
6. It is illegal to disturb someone by ringing their doorbell
The law stipulates that unless it is for a lawful reason, there should be no pulling or ringing of a doorbell to disturb the persons within the house.
Knocking is also prohibited and it is illegal to unlawfully enter a building or house to annoy anyone within.
7. It is illegal to sell on Sundays
The Act stipulates that it is illegal to have goods exposed for sale on Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas. Though it does not state why, one can assume the reason is closely related to religious beliefs.
If someone is found selling on a Sunday they would be charged $4 for each offence of selling.
8. It is illegal to get married after 6 pm
For some reason, a lot of these laws make reference to 6 pm as the cut off time for activities.
In addition to burials, Jamaicans cannot get married after the sun has set. The reception can take place after, but the couples must say “I do” and sign the documents before the clock strikes six.
9. Person found drunk in the streets can be arrested
In modern times, it is illegal to drink and drive. But according to the 1843 Act, it is also illegal to be found drunk in a public space, lying on the floor.
If a person is caught in violation of this rule, they will be charged $4. A failure to pay this fine will result in them being imprisoned for 10 days.
10. It is illegal to throw stones
If you’ve ever thrown a stone as a child, then you should have probably gone to jail.
The Act states that it is illegal to throw stones in public areas. It is also illegal to have stones, wood and other material lying in public spaces, the only exception for construction workers.
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