Quebec is known for a lot of things — poutine, hockey, Celine Dion, and, of course, its own set of quirky rules. From strict language laws to winter tire mandates, the province definitely marches to the beat of its own drum.
But like many places that boast a rich history, some of Quebec’s laws are outdated… or just plain weird.
With that in mind, we decided to round up a few odd pieces of legislation that still stand certain parts of la belle province.
Here are seven strange Quebec laws that might just make you do a double-take.
You can own a naturally-formed island (Provincial law)
Imagine being able to say you own an island.
Well, if a piece of land suddenly forms in a river or stream that runs through your property, congratulations — it’s legally yours.
According to Article 919 of the Civil Code of Québec, “Any island formed in a river or stream which belongs to an owner is his property.” So if Mother Nature gives you free real estate, be sure to thank her.
Source: Civil Code of Québec – Article 919
No painting your house too many colours (Westmount QC, municipal by-law)
If you decide to buy a home in Montreal’s Westmount borough and want to give it a fresh coat of paint, you should probably familiarize yourself with city rules — and stick to one colour.
According to Westmount’s municipal by-laws, “any exterior work that alters the appearance of a building’s façade requires approval from the City’s Planning Advisory Committee.” The rules aim to preserve the neighbourhood’s historical integrity.
So much for trying to stand out.
Source: Westmount Municipal By-laws & Architectural Guidelines
No non-Quebecois music in government buildings (Government policy)
Back in 2021, a new policy from the provincial Culture Ministry mandated that only music by Quebecois artists may be played in provincial government buildings and on government-run phone lines.
“The time for royalty-free elevator music is over,” said Quebec Culture Minister Nathalie Roy in a news conference.
While it’s technically a government policy rather than a law, you’ve got to wonder what kind of reaction you’d get if you walked into the National Assembly blasting a Bryan Adams tune from a boombox.
Source: Nathalie Roy | X
No fake wrestling matches (Federal law)
Before you set up your backyard wrestling show, you might want to double-check the law.
According to Section 83 of the Criminal Code of Canada, anyone “who engages as a principal in a prize fight is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment.” While this originally applied to staged wrestling matches, professional wrestling is now classified as entertainment, not a “prize fight,” so the WWE is safe.
As for starting your own underground (real) fight club, we’ll go ahead and assume that’s illegal too.
Source: Criminal Code of Canada – Section 83
Don’t water your lawn while it’s raining (Beaconsfield, QC by-law)
If you live in Beaconsfield and plan on watering your lawn, you might want to double-check the weather forecast first.
According to a Beaconsfield by-law, “the use of drinking water to water lawns is prohibited during rainfall or when precipitation is forecasted.” The rule is meant to promote water conservation and minimize unnecessary usage.
Residents who don’t comply with watering restrictions may be subject to fines, although the specific amounts are not detailed.
Source: By-law BEAC-070 – Use of Drinking Water
Fallen fruit is not up for grabs (Provincial law)
If an apple falls off your neighbour’s tree and lands in your yard, who does it belong to?
According to Article 985 of the Civil Code of Québec, “Fruits and nuts that fall naturally from a tree or shrub remain the property of the owner of the tree or shrub, even if they fall onto neighboring land.”
So, if you were thinking about making apple pie with your neighbor’s fallen fruit, think again.
Source: Civil Code of Québec – Article 985
No camping on your own land without a permit (Provincial law)
Picture this: a starry night, a tent in your own backyard, marshmallows. Pure bliss, right? Not in Quebec without a permission slip.
The Act respecting land use planning and development lets some municipalities demand a permit for certain uses of your land, like camping out back (even on your own turf). Forget to ask, and you’re folding up your tent with a fine up to $1,000
Source: Act respecting land use planning and development (CQLR c A-19.1), s. 113 (CQLR c A-19.1), s. 113
