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πŸ›οΈ Single-Use Items/Utensils-On-Request

Anaheim vs Costa Mesa

How do utensils-on-request rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Costa Mesa, CA?

Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Anaheim.

Anaheim, CA

Orange County

Some Restrictions

California AB 1276 requires Anaheim restaurants and food delivery platforms to provide single-use utensils, condiments, stirrers, and napkins only when the customer specifically requests them, ending automatic inclusion in takeout and delivery orders.

View full Anaheim rules β†’

Costa Mesa, CA

Orange County

Few Restrictions

California AB 1276 requires OC food facilities to provide single-use utensils, napkins, stirrers, and condiment packets only when customers request them or affirmatively select them at self-serve kiosks.

View full Costa Mesa rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactAnaheimCosta Mesa
AuthorityCA AB 1276 / PRC 42270.5-
DefaultOff in app/online-
Max fine$300 per year-
CoversUtensils, condiments, napkinsUtensils, napkins, condiments
State law-CA AB 1276
Effective-June 1, 2022
Annual cap-$300

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Anaheim FAQ

Can I get utensils if I forget to request them?

Yes, restaurants must provide them on request at any time without extra charge or hassle, including after the order is placed.

Do delivery apps have to comply?

Yes, third-party platforms like DoorDash and Grubhub must default accessory selection off and pass any explicit request to the restaurant.

Costa Mesa FAQ

Does the rule apply to grocery store deli counters?

Yes. Any food facility selling prepared food to-go, including supermarket delis, must offer utensils only upon request or via customer-initiated self-service.

Can OC delivery apps add a default utensil checkbox?

Apps must default to no utensils and require customers to opt in. Pre-checked boxes that automatically include utensils violate AB 1276.

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