Single-Use Plastics
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City of Bellingham passed a single-use plastics ban that will go into effect on July 31, 2022 and adds to other state legislation aimed at reducing single-use plastics. The ban affects lodging, restaurants/bars/pubs, grocery, and catering. We are here to help businesses operate the new legislation and remove single-use plastics from their operations.
Single-Use Plastic Restrictions
Lodging
City Ordinance
- Small plastic bottles less than 6 oz for personal care products (shampoo, lotion, soap) can no longer be provided in rooms.
- Businesses are encouraged to use refillable dispensers.
- As an accommodation for people with disabilities, small bottles are to be provided upon customer request.
- Takes effect July 31, 2022 [City Ordinance]
Restaurants, Bars, Pubs
State Law & City Ordinance
- Thin plastic bags are prohibited. Reusable plastic or paper bags are permissible if a fee of eight cents per bag is charged. Compostable bags can be provided at no charge. [State law]
- For dine-in service, restaurants must use durable service ware and utensils. An exception is available if hardship can be demonstrated – such as a very small restaurant that does not have room for a dishwasher. Takes effect July 31, 2022. [City ordinance].
- For takeout, utensils and condiment packages can be provided only after customer request. [State law].
- Takeout food service ware and utensils cannot be made of single-use plastic. Compostable or reusable wares are allowed. Takes effect July 31, 2022. [City ordinance]
- As an accommodation for people with disabilities, flexible plastic straws are to be made available upon request. Takes effect July 31, 2022. [City ordinance]
Groceries and Catering
State Law & City Ordinance
- Thin plastic bags are prohibited. Reusable plastic or paper bags are permissible if a fee of eight cents is charged. Compostable bags can be provided at no charge. [State law]
- Grocery stores that have in-store dining or takeout facilities will follow the same rules as outlined above for restaurants. [City ordinance]
- Single-use plastics cannot be used to repackage foods for distribution or sale. Food items prepackaged by a manufacturer and sold at retail are not regulated. Takes effect July 31, 2022. [City ordinance]
- The following items are exempt until January 1, 2023. Exceptions can be extended if no or limited alternative products are available. [City ordinance].
- Produce bags
- Catering trays
- Clear food wrap and shrink wrap
- Containers for uniquely shaped foods, e.g., deviled eggs and cupcakes
- Flexible plastic packaging used to preserve moisture and freshness such as for cookies
- Containers or trays for hot meat items such as for ribs or rotisserie chicken
- Small absorbent pads put under meat or seafood to absorb liquids in the package
All Other Retail Businesses
State Law
- Thin plastic bags are prohibited for all purposes. Reusable plastic or paper bags are permissible if a fee of eight cents is charged. Compostable bags can be provided at no charge. [State law]
- Food banks and food assistance programs are not considered retail businesses and are therefore exempt.