Single-use Plastic Foodware Ordinance
The City Council has taken a significant step towards environmental sustainability by passing the Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance on December 10, 2024. This ordinance will significantly reduce plastic waste by limiting the use of disposable items like plates, cutlery, cups, straws, and containers.
Key Dates:
- Effective June 10, 2025, businesses cannot provide customers with single-use plastic foodware, accessories, and carry out bags.
- Effective December 10, 2025, businesses must provide reusable foodware to all dine-in customers.
New Takeout Standards
- Food establishments may offer customers natural fiber-based compostable materials, such as paper, wood, sugarcane and bamboo, aluminum food containers and foil. Foodware accessories and condiments (utensils, straws, stir sticks, etc.) must only be provided upon request only.
New Dine-In Standards
- Food establishments must offer customers reusable foodware, and condiments must be served in a reusable container. Single-use compostable straws (upon request), paper napkins, foil/paper liners and paper trays are allowed.
The City Council also updated the City's plastic bag ordinance to eliminate the distribution of thin and thick plastic bags for all retail businesses including restaurants.
Key Changes:
- A retail and food establishment may only provide recycled paper bags or reusable bags.
- Must charge a minimum of .25 cents per bag
City staff along with members of the Environmental Commission hosted an Informational Session on the proposed Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance on Monday, June 3. To learn more about how this ordinance will reduce plastic waste in Los Altos' restaurants and businesses, please watch the recording of the session.
