Is Spitting An Illegal Thing to Do?
Spitting is not an awkward or illegal thing to do; however, how you spit determines if it’s good or not. The place upon which you spit also determines if you would be punished for your action.
For instance, spitting on someone’s face is a punishable offense in many sports even if it is seen as a way of expressing your anger and displeasure.
Apart from someone’s face, there are other places you aren’t permitted to spit on. So, in today’s post, we will see if it’s illegal to spit on sidewalks in The United States. But before then, let’s briefly discuss few things to know about spitting.
Contents
What Is spitting?
Spitting is the process of pouring saliva or other substances from the mouth.
Spitting sometimes requires force as you forcibly get rid of some unwanted and irritating substances, including mucus and phlegm, from your throat.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk
As much as every country has unique rules and regulations binding its citizens, almost all countries of the world don’t permit citizens to spit on sidewalks and crosswalks.
Most countries equally prohibit people from spitting on the floor of a public building where lots of people converge to carry out multiple activities.
European, American, and Asian countries strictly warned against spitting on sidewalks as it attracts punishments.
Though Africa nations don’t have specific laws concerning spitting on sidewalks, it is generally believed that spitting in public is completely an unhealthy lifestyle and one that shouldn’t be seen in well-trained individuals.
Is spitting on the sidewalk a crime?
Spitting on the sidewalk is a crime in many countries, including the United States, while a few nations don’t pay much attention to it.
It is stated clearly in Texas City’s law book that spitting on a sidewalk, taxicab, or any vehicle conveying passengers is a punishable crime. Hence, you will be fined, arrested, or sentenced to a short jail term.
What about spitting out your car window, is it illegal?
Spitting out of your car window isn’t illegal as it doesn’t violate civil law. However, that doesn’t allow you to spit in a wayward manner because it’s unlawful to spit into the wind.
Spitting into the wind, irrespective of your location or situation, is considered a violation of natural law which attracts punishment.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in California
Yes. Californians and other nationals living in the state are warned against spitting on sidewalks and floors of public places like churches, mosques, public halls, theaters, etc.
In the same vein, California laws forbade citizens from spitting close to another person. Your spit must be at least 5 feet away from the person standing next to you.
Can you go to jail for spitting on someone? Yes because spitting on someone’s face is a crime that could lead to jail in California.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Florida
Spitting on the sidewalk is an illegal thing to do in Florida, and it is listed among the top five crimes that could lead to jail in the state.
Though it sounds like a simple offense that could be overlooked, Florida’s ridiculous laws know nothing like ‘minor’ crimes.
As much as the authorities aren’t keeping close tabs on people spitting, you should desist from spitting on sidewalks and floors of public places to avoid harassment and punishment.
Other simple offenses that could land you in jail in Florida include peeing in public, failing to pay your taxes, using a fake ID, and cheating on your spouse.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in New York
Like every city discussed above, New York laws don’t support spitting on sidewalks. According to the constitution accessible online, no one is allowed to spit upon a sidewalk of a street or place.
Likewise, no citizen — irrespective of financial status or political affiliation — is permitted to spit on walls and stairways of any public premises or public transportation facility. However, you won’t be jailed if caught in the act. Instead, you will pay a certain amount of fine.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Arizona
Spitting isn’t prohibited unless you do it unlawfully. In Goodyear, Arizona, it is illegal to spit on the sidewalks and streets.
Apart from Goodyear, you aren’t allowed to spit outside of city halls, on highways and floors of worship places, markets, and other public places in Arizona.
The punishment for spitting on the sidewalk in Arizona includes a $2,500 fine, six months jail terms, or both.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Indiana
After discovering how dry spit aids in transferring heart-related ailments and infections, Indiana’s department of health swiftly move against spitting on sidewalks, especially in Terre Haute.
The authorities urge citizens to desist from spitting on the sidewalk except they are ready to pay a $5 to $100 fine.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is no different from the states discussed already. The Oklahoma government prohibits spitting on sidewalks.
Luckily, they allow citizens to spit on grasses. Hence, easily check for a grassy spot if you are in a desperate situation. We understand offenders might be jailed or fined, depending on the intensity of their offense.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Alabama
Alabama’s law and constitution aren’t different from other US states when it comes to spitting on sidewalks and public places.
It means you aren’t allowed to spit on sidewalks and floors of worship places, halls, malls, buses, etc. Meanwhile, it will interest you to know that spitting an orange peel on the sidewalk is equally prohibited and you would be reprimanded if caught.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Ohio
Ohio citizens, just like other Americans, are restricted from spitting, on sidewalks, and excreting in public places such as churches, theaters, and malls.
You would be charged for “unlawful spitting” and a minor misdemeanor, which attracts a specific punishment stated in the state’s constitution.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Massachusetts
It is stated clearly in Massachusetts’ general law that whoever spits on the sidewalk or pathways designated for pedestrians will be sanctioned by paying a fine.
It is equally revealed on the same page of the law that spitting upon any part of the town hall, courtroom, public library, public museum, church, theatre, lecture hall, factory, school building, ferry boat, railroad attracts a fine — not more than $20.
We believe the message above is clear enough to let you know that it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Massachusetts
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Illinois
It is illegal to spit on the sidewalk in some parts of Illinois like Ottawa. Engaging in such an unhealthy habit attracts punishment. As much as spitting isn’t a bad thing, you would agree it’s disgusting to spit on public places.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Michigan
Living in Michigan means you aren’t allowed to spit or defecate on the sidewalk in any street. You are also prohibited from spitting or urinating on alleys, parkways, public properties, and any parking structure in the area.
What would your punishment be if caught? You will be fined by the officials or you would be charged for a demeanor offense which might land you in jail.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Oregon
The Oregon state officials frown at whoever spits, urinate or expectorate on public pathways, sidewalk and upon the floors of a public place.
This wasn’t so few years ago, but the government was forced to implement such law following citizensʼ unruly behaviors in the public. It is believed that offenders would be arrested and fined.
Is it illegal to spit on the sidewalk in Virginia
Since Virginia is a well-regarded state in the country, we don’t expect anything different from the rest. This is to tell you that it is unlawful to spit on the sidewalk or upon any other public conveyance.
Likewise, it is illegal to spit in a room where food is kept as it could contaminate the food. You might need a spit cup or glass where you can spit before reaching your house.
Conclusion
As mentioned earlier, spitting isn’t a strange and awkward action. Unfortunately, you might be put behind bars for spitting in public places. However, you can spit on the grass or ground as long as it’s far from the next person.
Meanwhile, don’t spit on someone’s face regardless of your frustration or anger, it’s is an abnormal and irritating thing to do. You can express your anger in a more respectful and coordinated manner.
Sources
https://www.mercurynews.com/2009/02/23/roadshow-spitting-from-a-car-is-not-a-good-idea/
https://www.stupidlaws.com/it-is-illegal-to-spit-in-public/