SC Environmentally Acceptable Food Packaging Ordinance In Effect

From the City of Santa Cruz Public Works: Changes to the City of Santa Cruz Environmentally Acceptable Food Packaging and Products Ordinance are now in effect. The revisions require food service businesses to change all to-go food service ware to items that are biodegradable, compostable or recyclable in the City of Santa Cruz recycling program. This includes food containers, beverage lids, cutlery and straws. These changes will aid in the City’s duty to protect its natural environment, economy and citizens’ health.

On Sept. 26, 2017 the Santa Cruz City Council approved these revisions to the Santa Cruz Municipal Code Chapter 6.48 with a six month grace period for businesses to use up existing inventory and change all disposable food service ware to environmentally acceptable packaging. The changes include:

• Plastic cutlery is not allowed, however, compostable cutlery is acceptable.
• Plastic straws are not allowed, however, compostable straws such as those made of paper are acceptable.
• Polystyrene #6 products including hot beverage lids are not allowed.
• Plastic stir sticks are not allowed, however, wood stir sticks are acceptable.
• The definition of the term “polystyrene” is expanded to include clear or solid polystyrene which is known as “oriented polystyrene.” (This is a newer form of polystyrene that was not addressed in the original ordinance. )
• Food providers may only give straws, lids, cutlery and to-go condiment packages upon request of the customer.

City staff are now helping businesses that are not yet in compliance find alternatives before the busy Memorial Day weekend.

Additionally, food service providers are encouraged to charge a take-out fee of $.25 for disposable cups, lids, straws, stirrers and/or utensils to offset any cost difference of biodegradable, compostable or recyclable food service ware. Food providers are also encouraged to provide a $.25 credit for customers bringing their own reusable containers for to-go items.

To view the revised ordinance, related business brochure and biodegradable product vendor list, visit: www.cityofsantacruz.com/polystyrene.

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