Single-Use Items in Nashville, TN (2026)
3 verified single-use items rules for Nashville, Tennessee, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Plastic Bag Rules
Tennessee preempts local plastic bag bans and fees under TCA 68-211-1101. Nashville cannot ban single-use plastic bags or impose a checkout-bag fee. Voluntary retailer programs and recycling drop-offs remain the only local option.
State preemption of plastic bag bans and fees
Few RestrictionsPolystyrene Foam Rules
TCA 68-211-1101 also blocks Nashville from banning expanded polystyrene foam takeout containers or coolers. Metro can encourage alternatives through its sustainability program but cannot prohibit foam at restaurants, schools, or special events.
No local foam ban; state preempts container rules
Few RestrictionsPlastic Straw Rules
Tennessee's auxiliary container preemption blocks Nashville from mandating straws-on-request or banning plastic straws. Restaurants may voluntarily switch to paper or compostable straws, and ADA accommodations require offering flexible plastic options to disabled patrons.
Plastic straw rules and state preemption
Few RestrictionsLooking for Davidson County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Nashville city rules.
Single-Use Items in Davidson County →