San Diego Citywide Single-Use Plastics Ban In Effect

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): With the one-year grace period to comply with the citywide ban on plastic foam containers ending last month, all businesses in San Diego are required to completely eliminate the use of single-use Styrofoam products.

The City of San Diego’s Single Use Plastic Reduction Ordinance had become effective as of April 1, 2023. However, small businesses with a gross income of $500,000 or less were given an extra year to comply. Since April 1, 2024, all city businesses are now required to follow the ordinance.

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The ordinance prohibits from distribution and sale most polystyrene foam containers, including food service ware such as bowls, plates, trays, cups, lids, and other similar items, as well as egg cartons and meat trays. Also, single-use plastic and bio-plastic straws and utensils may be provided upon the request of customers. All polystyrene foam products are prohibited from City facilities including parks and benches.

The City press release noted that polystyrene foam litter poses a threat to wildlife as it breaks down into small pieces and is not biodegradable. They often ends up in streets, waterways, storm drains, and eventually the ocean, where it harms wildlife. Meantime, supporters of the ban is a win for the environment.