When the Sounds of Summer Drive You Nuts

How late is too late to hear the song of the ice cream man? That’s what neighbor Kathy was wondering last night when, just before 11pm, the familiar Mister Softee jingle continued to sound after over an hour near her apartment at Cortelyou and Westminster.

“Who is this guy serving while keeping kids awake?” she asked. “Stoners?”

Noise code legislation that went into effect in 2007 prohibits ice cream trucks from playing their jingle while parked:

The Noise Code prohibits the playing of jingles while any type of food vending vehicle is stationary. Vehicles may only play jingles while they are in motion.

It’s up to the Department of Environmental Protection to enforce, which can be difficult since the trucks are often on the move. But if you have a noise complaint about an ice cream truck, or about anything else, call 311.

What’s the latest hour you’ve heard an ice cream truck cruising through the neighborhood? And when do you think it’s appropriate for them to close up shop for the night?