3 things you didn’t know were illegal in NC

Discover surprising act that are illegal in NC that might catch you off guard.

Color Pop Corner mural

This quirky downtown mural is a reflection of some of NC’s lesser known laws.

Photo by RALtoday

Table of Contents

NC is home to some quirky and lesser-known laws that might surprise you. Here are three acts in NC that you probably didn’t know were illegal.

Borrowing Your Neighbor’s Dog

It might sound like a harmless act of neighborly borrowing, but it’s illegal to “borrow” someone else’s dog without permission. The law treats pets as property, and taking animals without consent is considered theft.

Singing Off Key

It might seem like a joke, but in NC, singing off key in public can technically be illegal. This regulation falls under the category of disturbing the peace. While it’s unlikely you’ll be fined or arrested, the law reflects an outdated approach to maintaining public order.

Time Limit on Bingo Games

Bingois a popular game enjoyed by many, but did you know that NC has specific regulations governing its play? According to state law, BINGO games cannot exceed five hours.

More from RALtoday
Head to Coastal Credit Union Music Park on Saturday, April 18 to honor earth with a cleanup, eco talks, and an earth-friendly market
Explore group volunteer opportunities, from hands-on projects to custom experiences, that let your team give back to the Raleigh community.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
March is here, and Triangle basketball is better than ever. See how Duke, UNC, and NC State men’s and women’s basketball teams did during March Madness.
In honor of National Poetry Month and Raleigh’s first poet laureate position, we’re inviting you to channel your inner Shakespeare, Dickinson, or Keats.
Will Wade led Wolfpack men’s basketball for one season, leaving a 20-14 record and a postseason exit in the First Four.
We asked our readers which women leaders in Raleigh business are making history today — you nominated local CEOs, founders, and entrepreneurs shaping the region’s future.
This fan-favorite spot will open its next coffee shop next to Alo Yoga in the Main District.
All three cities are pitching themselves for an MLB team.
Mayor Janet Cowell delivered the 2026 State of the City address at the City of Raleigh Museum on March 18 — here’s what you need to know from this year’s address.