Baltimore's Single-Use Items: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles single-use items a little differently. In Baltimore, Maryland, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Plastic Bag Rules

Baltimore Ordinance 19-0401 bans single-use plastic carryout bags and requires retailers to charge 5 cents per paper bag. Maryland's statewide HB 314 reinforces local bans starting 2025.

Key details: Local ordinance: 19-0401. Paper bag fee: 5 cents minimum. City share of fee: 1 cent per bag. Statewide law: MD HB 314 (2025).

Civil fines up to $1,000 per day for repeat violations; first violations typically receive a written warning before escalation.

This is one of the stricter rules in Baltimore's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Plastic Straw Rules

Baltimore restaurants may not pre-set or automatically distribute plastic straws. Customers must affirmatively request them. Disability accommodations preserve full access on request.

Key details: Distribution model: On request only. ADA accommodation: Plastic straw on request. Default alternatives: Paper, compostable. Sealed beverages: Exempt.

Education-first enforcement with warnings; civil citations possible for repeat or willful refusal to comply with on-request distribution.

Polystyrene Foam Rules

Baltimore Ordinance 18-0163 prohibits expanded polystyrene (foam) food service products. Maryland's statewide ban took effect in 2020. Restaurants must use approved alternatives; violations carry civil penalties.

Key details: Local ordinance: 18-0163. State ban effective: October 2020. Approved alternatives: Compostable, recyclable, reusable. Daily fine cap: $250.

Civil fines up to $250 per day per violation; repeat offenders may face license action and inspection holds on Health Department permits.

Compared to other cities, Baltimore takes a harder line on polystyrene foam rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Takeout Containers

Baltimore takeout containers must be non-foam and meet recyclable or compostable standards. Restaurants must offer condiments and utensils on request rather than auto-bundling them with orders.

Key details: Foam containers: Prohibited. Approved materials: Recyclable, compostable. Utensils default: On request. Certification program: Baltimore Sustainable Business.

Foam-container use draws polystyrene-ban penalties (up to $250/day). Auto-bundled accessory waste is education-first with possible civil citations for repeat noncompliance.

The Bottom Line

Baltimore is tougher than many cities when it comes to single-use items. Out of the 4 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Baltimore, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Baltimore can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.