Four STRANGE laws in South Africa that could get you in trouble
South Africa’s lawbook hides some unexpectedly strange laws. Here are four everyday things that are actually illegal…
Think South Africa’s law is straightforward? Not quite.
From removing beach sand to driving shirtless, or singing too loudly in public – these are some of the STRANGEST things you could be fined for in South Africa…
1. Driving shirtless or with your elbow out the window
In South Africa, traffic law meets decency law in surprising ways. You can be fined for driving with your elbow sticking out of the window or without a shirt.
Why: The rules stem from safety and public order concerns. Exposed arms can get injured in tight traffic or side-swipes, and “shirtless driving” has been interpreted as indecent exposure in certain municipalities.
2. Removing sand from South Africa’s beaches without permission
That handful of sand you thought would make a cute souvenir? Illegal. Under South Africa’s environmental regulations, taking sand, shells, or stones from beaches without a proper permit is an offence.
Why: Beach sand removal contributes to coastal erosion and disrupts fragile ecosystems. Even small amounts add up when thousands of visitors do it.
3. Singing badly in public
If your neighbours ever told you to “keep it down,” they might actually have the law on their side.
Under South Africa’s municipal noise-control by-laws, excessive or disruptive sound, including loud singing, can be treated as a public disturbance or noise nuisance.
Why: These by-laws protect peace in public and residential areas. They’re rarely enforced for casual singing, but if you’re performing karaoke on the street at midnight, you could get fined. Save your vocals for open-mic night instead!
4. Dyeing your pet is illegal under South Africa’s Animals Protection Act
Those cute pink poodles you see online? Illegal here. Under the Animals Protection Act of 1962, it’s a criminal offence to dye, paint, or otherwise alter an animal’s appearance for decorative purposes.
Why: The law aims to prevent unnecessary suffering. Dyes can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or poisoning. It’s considered cruelty, even if the colours are “non-toxic.”
So before you scoop up sand or sing your lungs out, remember: sometimes the strangest laws make the most sense, once you know why they exist.