Licensed to Heel”: The California Town Where High Fashion Needs a Permit

Image Source: Time Out

In a surprising twist that blends fashion with local folklore, Carmel-by-the-Sea-a picturesque coastal town in California-requires anyone wishing to wear high heels over two inches to obtain a special permit from City Hall. This whimsical regulation, dating back to 1963, is rooted in practical concerns: the town’s charming, uneven sidewalks, shaped by sprawling tree roots and rustic cobblestones, pose a tripping hazard for stiletto lovers. The law aims to protect the city from lawsuits rather than to police fashion choices.

Key Highlights:

The Law: Shoes with heels higher than two inches and a base smaller than one square inch are technically banned unless the wearer has a permit.
Why the Rule Exists: Uneven pavements and tree roots make walking in high heels risky, so the law was introduced to prevent injury-related lawsuits against the city.
Getting a Permit: Permits are free, quick, and easy to obtain at Carmel City Hall. The process involves signing a waiver releasing the city from liability if you trip or fall.
Enforcement: The law is rarely, if ever, enforced by local police. Most residents and visitors treat it as a quirky tradition rather than a strict rule.
Souvenir Appeal: Many tourists collect the official permit as a unique memento of their visit-complete with their name and a city clerk’s signature.
Town Charm: Carmel-by-the-Sea is also famous for its storybook cottages, lack of street addresses, and a ban on chain restaurants, adding to its one-of-a-kind character.