Famous Italian City Considers Ban on Ice Cream and Pizza

Milan is currently proposing a new law aimed at banning late-night ice cream and takeaway food, including pizza, after midnight. This move is part of an effort to protect the tranquility of residents and address issues related to noise and overcrowding caused by late-night gatherings on the city streets.

The proposed law, which covers 12 districts in the city, seeks to strike a balance between socializing and entertainment on one hand, and the peace and tranquility of local residents on the other.

If passed, the ban would apply to outdoor tables only and would be effective from “mid-May” until November. It would be enforced from 12.30am on weekdays and 1.30am on weekends and public holidays.

Reasons Behind the Ban on Ice Cream

According to Marco Granelli, the deputy mayor of Milan, the goal of the proposed law is to find this balance and ensure that residents can enjoy a peaceful environment even in the late hours of the night.

The ban on late-night ice cream and takeaway food is seen as a measure to reduce noise and disturbances caused by large groups of people gathering on the streets, especially during weekends and holidays.

Residents and businesses in the affected areas have until early May to appeal and suggest changes to the proposed law. The areas covered by the ban include Nolo, Lazzaretto, Melzo, Isola, Sarpi, Via Cesariano, Arco della Pace, Como-GaeAulenti, Porta Garibaldi, Brera, Ticinese, and Darsena-Navigli.

It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first time Milan has considered such a ban. Back in 2013, the then-mayor Giuliano Pisapia attempted similar measures, but faced strong opposition, including a reported ‘occupy gelato’ movement. As a result, Pisapia reversed his decision, stating, “People can eat ice cream day and night, anywhere they like.”

The proposed ban on late-night ice cream and takeaway food is seen as a contentious issue, with some arguing that it infringes on people’s freedom to enjoy a late-night treat, which is considered a part of Italian culture.

However, supporters of the Ice cream ban argue that it is necessary to maintain order and ensure that residents can enjoy a peaceful environment, especially during late hours.