Single-Use Items in Washington, DC (2026)
4 verified single-use items rules for Washington, District of Columbia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Plastic Bag Rules
The Anacostia River Cleanup and Protection Act (DC Disposable Bag Act of 2009) imposes a 5-cent fee on every disposable carryout bag, with funds earmarked for Anacostia River restoration.
DC Five-Cent Bag Tax and Plastic Bag Ban
Some RestrictionsPolystyrene Foam Rules
The Sustainable DC Omnibus Act bans expanded polystyrene foam food containers, cups, plates, and trays at any DC food service business or institution effective January 2016.
Polystyrene Foam Foodware Ban
Heavy RestrictionsPlastic Straw Rules
DC restaurants must provide plastic straws and stirrers only on request under the Sustainable DC Omnibus Act, and beginning 2024 all single-use stirrers must be compostable.
Plastic Straw and Stirrer Restrictions
Some RestrictionsUtensils-On-Request
Effective January 2024, DC food service businesses including third-party delivery platforms may provide disposable utensils, napkins, and condiment packets only when customers affirmatively request them.
Single-Use Utensils Only Upon Request
Some RestrictionsLooking for District of Columbia county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Washington city rules.
Single-Use Items in District of Columbia →