The City of San Diego’s Single Use Plastic Reduction Ordinance goes into effect on April 1. In summary:

• Most polystyrene foam containers are prohibited from distribution and sale. This includes food service ware such as bowls, plates, trays, cups, lids, and other similar items, as well as egg cartons and meat trays.
• Single-use plastic (and bio-plastic) straws and utensils may only be provided upon the request of the customer.
• The following may not be distributed if made from polystyrene foam unless encased within another material:
  • Coolers, ice chests, or similar containers.
  • Pool or beach toys.
  • Dock floats, mooring buoys, or anchor or navigation markers.
• All polystyrene foam products are prohibited from City facilities (including parks and beaches).

Waivers are available for feasibility-based hardships, financial hardships, and contractual requirements. There is an automatic waiver through March 31, 2024, for entities with gross income less than $500,000 on most recent federal income tax filing. To apply for a waiver, email [email protected]. 

To learn more, you can attend one of the information sessions that will cover:

• The importance and background of the ordinance.
• How to prepare for implementation, including waiver options, alternatives to polystyrene, and resources available.
• Q&A session with City staff.

In-person workshop – Linda Vista Recreation Center (7064 Levant St.), Thursday, March 2, from 2-3 p.m.

Zoom webinar – Tuesday, March 7, from 2-3 p.m. If you have special language needs and require additional assistance, please email [email protected] or call 858-694-7000.

Polystyrene foam products are typically used one time before being discarded, and due to their light weight can easily become litter. Polystyrene foam litter breaks down into small pieces which do not biodegrade and often end up in streets, canyons, waterways, storm drains, and eventually the ocean, where it harms wildlife that mistakenly ingests it.

Plastic straws are a significant contributor to marine pollution and are among the most common forms of litter collected on California beaches. They are not accepted in local recycling programs.

The Single Use Plastic Reduction Ordinance will help San Diego reach its Zero Waste goals and help maintain clean and beautiful beaches and public spaces. The Ordinance will also meet the objectives of the City’s Climate Action Plan.