Single-Use Items in Saint Paul, MN (2026)
4 verified single-use items rules for Saint Paul, Minnesota, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Plastic Bag Rules
Minnesota partially preempts local plastic bag bans under Minn. Stat. §471.9998, but allows fees and reusable-bag programs. Saint Paul has not adopted a citywide bag ban, while neighboring cities have used the carve-outs differently.
Saint Paul Carryout Bag Rules and State Preemption
Some RestrictionsPolystyrene Foam Rules
Saint Paul prohibits food establishments from using polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) cups, plates, clamshells, and trays for prepared food and drinks. The city's ordinance predates state action and is enforced by DSI through licensing.
Saint Paul Polystyrene Foam Foodware Ban
Heavy RestrictionsPlastic Straw Rules
Saint Paul does not have a citywide plastic-straw ban, but the Climate Action and Resilience Plan encourages restaurants to provide straws only on request. Several Saint Paul restaurants follow this voluntarily.
Saint Paul Plastic Straws on Request
Few RestrictionsUtensils-On-Request
Saint Paul has no binding 'utensils on request' ordinance, but the Climate Action and Resilience Plan and Ramsey County Zero Waste plan encourage restaurants to provide plastic utensils, napkins, and condiment packets only when customers ask.