Milan Considers Banning Late-Night Ice Cream Sales in Effort to Reduce Noise

The Italian city of Milan is considering a new law that would ban the sale of takeaway food and drink, including ice cream, pizza, and bottled water, after midnight in 12 of the city's most active districts. The proposed ban, aimed at preserving the "tranquility" of residential areas and reducing excessive noise, would prevent establishments from serving food and drink in outside areas between 12:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. on weekdays, and 1:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. on weekends.

The proposed law, set to take effect from mid-May through November, has faced criticism from local businesses and residents who argue that it goes against Italian culture and the tradition of consuming gelato late at night, a popular activity for both residents and tourists. Marco Barbieri, secretary general of the Confcommercio Milano union, stated that the ban would prevent the sale of "even a simple ice cream cone or bottle of water after midnight."

This is not the first time Milan has attempted to implement such measures. A similar proposal was made in 2013 but was ultimately abandoned after significant public backlash, including an "Occupy Gelato" protest that forced the mayor to backtrack. The current deputy mayor acknowledges the contention around the issue but says some limits are necessary to address late-night noise complaints and strike a balance between socializing, entertainment, and the peace and tranquility of residents.

Why this matters: The proposed ban on late-night food sales in Milan highlights the ongoing tension between preserving cultural traditions and addressing quality-of-life concerns in urban areas. The outcome of this debate could set a precedent for how other cities in Italy and beyond balance the competing demands of nightlife and residential tranquility.

Citizens have until early May to appeal or suggest changes to the proposed legislation. Local neighborhood associations, citizens groups, shop owners, and unions are preparing to fight the law, dubbed the "Ice-cream Wars of 2024." The fate of Milan's late-night gelato tradition hangs in the balance as residents await the final decision on the controversial proposal.

Key Takeaways

• Milan considers banning late-night takeaway food/drink sales in 12 districts.
• Proposed law aims to preserve residential tranquility, reduce noise.
• Businesses, residents criticize ban as against Italian culture, gelato tradition.
• Similar 2013 proposal was abandoned after public backlash, "Occupy Gelato" protest.
• Outcome could set precedent for balancing nightlife and residential needs in cities.