No Silly String on Halloween – Hollywood’s Odd Ban
Hollywood is known for its glitz, glamour, and over-the-top celebrations, but did you know that in Los Angeles, it’s illegal to possess, use, or sell Silly String on Halloween? That’s right—since 2004, a city ordinance has banned the popular party prop on October 31st, with hefty fines for those who break the rule.
Why Was Silly String Banned?
The law was put in place due to years of chaotic Halloween celebrations in Hollywood. Large crowds gather every year for the famous Halloween parade and festivities, and Silly String became a major nuisance. Revelers would spray it all over streets, buildings, and even police officers, creating a sticky mess that was difficult to clean up.
City officials and law enforcement claimed that the widespread use of Silly String led to safety hazards, including:
- Slippery sidewalks that caused people to fall.
- Vandalism, as the spray stained cars and buildings.
- Increased cleanup costs, as the city had to spend thousands on removal efforts.
What’s the Penalty?
Anyone caught using, possessing, or selling Silly String in Hollywood on Halloween (and from 12:00 AM to 12:00 PM on November 1st) faces a $1,000 fine. Police officers patrol the streets specifically looking for offenders, and the law is strictly enforced during the festivities.
Does This Law Still Make Sense?
While it may seem excessive to ban a party prop, many residents and business owners support the law because it keeps the streets cleaner and makes the massive Halloween event more manageable. Others argue that it takes the fun out of the holiday and punishes harmless behavior.
Regardless of which side you’re on, one thing is clear—if you’re celebrating Halloween in Hollywood, leave the Silly String at home unless you want a costly trick instead of a treat!
