Single-Use Items in Seattle, WA (2026)
3 verified single-use items rules for Seattle, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Plastic Bag Rules
Seattle banned single-use plastic carryout bags in July 2012 — one of the first major US cities. Washington State then preempted with a statewide ban effective October 1, 2021 (HB 1205). Retailers must charge 8 cents per recycled-content paper bag or reusable bag. Bags must be 2.25 mils thick to qualify as reusable.
Seattle Plastic Bag Ban & 8-Cent Paper Bag Fee
Heavy RestrictionsPolystyrene Foam Rules
Seattle banned expanded polystyrene foam food service containers under SMC 21.36.086 starting 2009-2010, becoming the first major US city to do so. All food packaging must be recyclable or compostable. Washington added a statewide ban in 2024.
Polystyrene Foam Food Service Containers Banned
Heavy RestrictionsPlastic Straw Rules
Seattle's 2018 plastic straw and utensil ban under SMC 21.36.086 made it the first major US city to prohibit single-use plastic straws and disposable utensils. All food service must use compostable alternatives or provide on-request only.
Plastic Straws and Utensils Banned in Food Service
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Seattle city rules.
Single-Use Items in King County →