Is it legal to be in only underwear in public?

Answer 1

In most places in the western world, yes it is legal to be in underwear in public. Or to be more precise, it is not illegal, there being a subtle difference. But that needs some clarification. Doing so isn't usually classed as indecency. That is presuming of-course that the underwear isn't see-through, tight or so minute that private parts are clear or exposed.

Having said that just about everywhere has some law that can be used to stop you in your tracks - if the police are so minded. The kind of law would be causing a public nuisance or alarm - called different things in different places. Such laws are often open to interpretation.

In the US these days there are a great many underwear events - from fashion stunts, charity runs and walks to the annual No Pants metro ride - not to mention NY's very own Naked Cowboy who struts around wearing nothing but a pair of tighty whities and a guitar in all weathers. It is doubtful if many of them have been arrested for indecency - or even if the participants themselves consider what they are doing is indecent.

The use of nuisance laws would hardly likely to be used against those taking part in a mass event especially one for charity. Basically it would come down to context. If you are up to no good and out to cause alarm then maybe what you are doing is illegal. If it is simply harmless fun and especially in a group the police might have a hard time securing a prosecution - and indeed made to look very foolish if they tried.

Answer 2

Its a tricky one open to much interpretation and would largely be police officer dependent. A woman in proper underwear could be done for indecent exposure, as could a man with just briefs on. But that said, you could wear exactly those items at the beach and the law would not care, though you might look a little strange compared to other beach goers. Suffice to say, you'd be rolling the dice to walk through a shopping centre or mall in just underwear.

Answer 3

No. This would be considered indecent exposure.

Yes, you may wear a thong in public and many people do on public beaches. And I would defend to the death the right of any woman to wear one if that were her choice.

Answer 4

No it is not illegal to walk around your house with your underwear, it is your house you walk around your house how ever you want to. However, if you pass open windows and doors, it could be an issue and there could be questions of exposure.

Answer 5

In most countries, yes. It is illegal to not wear underwear, especially so if you do not wear clothes. While it is illegal and if found you could be jailed, it is ok not to declare that you aren't wearing any. In fact it would be illegal for policemen to strip you to check if you are wearing any, so most cases you won't be caught. Good luck

Answer 6

Laws regarding public nudity vary by location, but in most places it is illegal to be in public in only underwear. It is considered indecent exposure and can result in fines or other legal consequences. It is important to familiarize oneself with the laws in their specific area.

Answer 7

In the United States, in every state that I know of, you can be charged with public indecency or indecent exposure for being naked in public.

Answer 8

Yes. It is called indecent exposure.

Answer 9

yes it is illegal to do that