Sonoma Drafts Ordinance to Ban Styrofoam

Items to be included in the ban: 

food containers, cups, bowls, foam coolers, pool toys, packing peanuts and foam wine-shipment inserts

Items not included in the ban:

Clear plastic containers, foam trays under meat or fish at grocery markets, items shipped into the city, and an exemption if a business demonstrated the ordinance presents a hardship.

Enforcement? 

Via a complaint-based system, consumers will be able to report people or businesses. The City will provide 3 warning letters and then issue fines.

Public opinion:

In an online survey of chambers of commerce, trade organizations and local businesses:

• 91% supported a ban on polystyrene food containers at food establishments, 
• 89% supported a ban on the sale of polystyrene foam products at retail stores, 
• and 87% supported straws being provided only upon request.

Sonoma News | Pool noodles and packing peanuts: Sonoma takes aim against Styrofoam