CECC-4.1bExpand the Polystyrene Foam and Single Use Plastics Ordinance to phase out Single-Use materials and prioritize reuse rather than disposable goods

Single-use polystyrene and plastic products are significant contributors to beach litter and marine pollution. To address this, the City passed the  Single Use Plastic Reduction Ordinance in 2023, and then expanded enforcement to include all businesses as of April 1, 2024.

The ordinance:

• Bans the sale or distribution of most polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) containers, including at all City facilities.
• Requires that single-use plastic and bio-plastic straws and utensils may only be provided to customers upon request or at self-service stations. 

Please visit the Environmental Service Department’s  San Diego Single Use Plastics Ordinance webpage for resources and information about preferred alternatives to single-use items.