In our last post we talked about the old Newark, New Jersey law that states that it is illegal to sell ice cream in Newark after 6 pm on Sundays unless the customer has permission from his or her doctor. It sounds pretty strange, so we did some poking around to find out if this outdated rule is still enforced.
None of the restuarants we talked to had even heard of the law. A few of them ended our conversation as soon as we mentioned the law and asked if they sold ice cream on Sunday evenings. Perhaps they were afraid we were a police informant of some sort. The New Jersey Restaurant Association was also unaware of the 19th century rule.
Before we ended our brief investigation, we went right to the source of the law’s enforcement: The Newark Police Department. There, we spoke with a clerk from the Laws Department who was unable to find any immediate record of the law, but agreed to fax us a form to initiate a more in-depth search.
So there you have it. The Newark ice cream law is probably on the books somewhere, but known by very few (and enforced by no one). We know that ignorance of the law is no defense, but in this case, we’re guessing what you don’t know, won’t hurt you.
Loading ...
If you’ve got a technical question about the ice cream making process or some other inquiry about the nuances of America’s favorite treat, chances are Ernie has the answer. He might not be able to answer all questions, but he’ll try his best and some may be featured on the Ice Cream Journal.
I am glad this law is not enforced. Next time I am going through Newark I won’t have to worry what time I stop for ice cream. Keep up the interesting blog.
Okay, if I’m ever in Newark on a Sunday evening, I’ll be wary of ordering ice cream, just in case of entrapment.
Why would anyone make such a stupid law anyhow? It’s like “No breathing on Saturdays”,,lolol Ice Cream is good for you, makes people feel good,, happy,, Everyone should eat ice cream, at least 2 times a week!
Wow. Well thanks for researching that. You learn something new every day!
Glad to know they don’t enforce this law, it is just crazy. Maybe they bribe the police with some Turkey Hill.
I really did think it was a joke but mabey the law was written by someone who is lactose intolerant….
If it is true, Its the silliest law I ever heard of. Ice cream is the best anti depressant!! It makes you feel good all ove, especially Duettos!
Only here in New Jersey! I’m movin’ up to Lancaster!
Unfortunately, Newark has more to worry about than ice cream laws. It is once again the murder capital of America, beating out Camden. As a Jersey Girl, I can’t help being aware of the problems in my state.
So when can we expect an update on this? I live in NJ and go to school at NJIT in Newark, so I would like to know.