Polystyrene Foam Rules: East Orange vs Newark
How do polystyrene foam rules rules compare between East Orange, NJ and Newark, NJ?
East Orange has fewer restrictions than Newark.
East Orange, NJ
Essex County
New Jersey prohibits polystyrene foam food service products under NJSA 13:1E-99.126, banning foam clamshells, cups, trays, and similar items statewide effective May 2022.
View full East Orange rules →Newark, NJ
Essex County
Under NJ P.L. 2020 c. 117, polystyrene foam food service products — clamshells, cups, plates, trays — were banned statewide effective May 4, 2022. Newark restaurants and food vendors must use compostable, paper, or recyclable alternatives.
View full Newark rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | East Orange | Newark |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Effective date | - | May 4, 2022 |
| Foam cups | - | Banned |
| Foam clamshells | - | Banned |
| Statute | - | NJ §13:1E-99.126 |
| Hardship waivers | - | Mostly expired |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
East Orange FAQ
Newark FAQ
Can my food truck use foam cups for hot drinks?
No. Polystyrene foam cups are banned regardless of contents. Use paper, recyclable plastic #1 or #5, or compostable PLA cups instead.
What about prepackaged foam-tray products from out of state?
Products sealed and packaged before entering NJ are exempt. The ban applies to NJ-based food service distribution and use, not pre-sealed retail goods.
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