What is the Single-Use Disposable (SUD) Foodware Ordinance?

Ordinance No. 1527 was passed to align with the city's Zero Waste Action Plan. This ordinance will help reduce the use of single-use plastic foodware that contributes to street litter, marine pollution, harm to wildlife, waste sent to landfills, and greenhouse gas emissions. The main points are as follows: 

  • Food vendors with proper dishwashing capacity must use reusable foodware for onsite dining. 
  • Accessory foodware must be provided upon request or at a self-serve station. Example of accessory foodware include but are not limited to: straws, stirrers, napkins, cup sleeves, spill plugs, and more.
  • All single-use disposable foodware, including accessory foodware, must be fiber-based compostable and free of poly-fluorinated chemicals (PFAS) 
  • Food vendors must charge a $0.25 fee per order for food served in disposable foodware. For example: if a customer orders a burger and a drink, they would only be charged $0.25 extra for the entire order, not for each disposable. 
  • Food vendors must offer at least a $0.25 discount per order for customers who bring their own reusable foodware for takeout. For example: if a customer orders two coffees and brings a reusable mug for each, it is only $0.25 off the order.

Show All Answers

1. What is the Single-Use Disposable (SUD) Foodware Ordinance?
2. When does the Single-Use Foodware Ordinace go into effect?
3. Where do all the $0.25 charges go after they are collected by businesses?
4. Where can I find a vendor list of compliant SUD?
5. What disposable materials are compliant?
6. Why are plant based/bio plastics not compliant?
7. Is this a ban on single-use products at food establishments?
8. Is this a plastic water bottle ban?
9. Are there exemptions?
10. If someone places an order using only exempted foodware, does that order still receive a $0.25 charge?
11. What if a customer brings a reusable container for part of their order and uses disposables for the rest of their order?
12. What businesses are impacted by the ordinance?
13. What are the requirements for reusable foodware?
14. Does the health code allow for customers to bring their own container for take-out?
15. What if the container brought by the customer does not seem suitable for use?