New Law Affecting All Food Establishments in Laguna Beach -
Prohibition of Expanded Polystyrene Foam Food Service Ware Beginning July 1, 2008
Ordinance 1480 was adopted by the City Council on December 4, 2007. The new ordinance will require an adjustment to many restaurants’ operations. The new law prohibits local food establishments from serving customers disposable food service ware made from expanded polystyrene foam and non-recyclable plastic. This prohibition applies to all restaurants, shops, retail stores, grocery stores, delicatessens, or food coaches located within the City of Laguna Beach. The prohibition will go into effect on July 1, 2008.
It is recommended that food establishments begin working with supply vendors to procure alternative disposal food containers. Disposable food service ware means all single-use, disposable products used for serving or transporting food or beverages, including take out foods and/or partially consumed meals prepared by a restaurant or food vendor. Food service ware includes containers, bowls, plates, trays, cartons, ice chests, lids, straws, forks, spoons, knives, and other items and utensils.
Food establishments serving customers with disposal containers made from expanded polystyrene after July 1, 2008 will be subject to enforcement actions, including fines and penalties.
Food establishments demonstrating an undue hardship as a result of this ordinance may apply for a one-year exemption. An “undue hardship” may consist of:
- Situations unique to the food provider where there are no reasonable alternatives to expanded polystyrene or non-recyclable plastic food service ware and compliance with this ordinance would cause a severe economic hardship to the food provider.
- Situations where no reasonably feasible available alternative exists to a specific and necessary expanded polystyrene or non-recyclable plastic.
Frequently asked questions about the polystyrene ban
For more information, contact Mike Phillips at (949) 497-0390 |
