 Single-Use Plastic Straw and Stirrer Ban
Did you know? In 2019, the City of West Palm Beach adopted Ordinance 4836-19 prohibiting the distribution, sale, and use of plastic straws and plastic stirrers in the City of West Palm Beach.
Plastic straws and stirrers are not recyclable, are a major component of roadside and marine litter, and do not decompose in the natural environment. They wash into the waterways and oceans, polluting the water and killing marine life as they break into smaller and smaller pieces. Used for a short time, they remain in the environment forever. There are alternatives with less environmental impact – reusable straws, paper straws that decompose in the environment, and saying no to straws altogether when not needed.
The prohibition does not include pre-packaged drinks or food sold at commercial establishments and does not apply to medical or dental facilities, individuals with a disability or other impairment requiring the use of a plastic straw or plastic stirrer, the School District or county, state, or federal government entities, or any city contract, lease, or concession agreement entered into prior to July 1, 2019.
Report a Violation or Give Kudos
Click here to access the Google Form to give kudos to a local business for complying with the ordinance, or report a violation. Anonymous reporting is available. Our goal is not to collect fines, but to keep plastics out of the environment. Businesses with reported violations will receive a personal visit first to provide details about the ordinance and offer assistance finding a good alternative for compliance. If businesses do not comply within a timely manner, violations may incur $125 per occurrence (per straw).
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