Los Angeles vs Palmdale
How do takeout containers rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Palmdale, CA?
Los Angeles and Palmdale have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles prohibits expanded polystyrene foam takeout containers, clamshells, plates, trays, and bowls under Ordinance 187357. Replacement fiber or plastic containers labeled compostable must hold BPI or CMA certification under California AB-1201.
View full Los Angeles rules →Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 12.84 bans expanded polystyrene takeout containers at unincorporated-area food businesses. California AB-1201 sets ASTM compostability labeling rules so containers marketed compostable meet ASTM D6400 or D6868 standards before being sold or used countywide.
View full Palmdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Palmdale |
|---|---|---|
| Local ordinance | LA Ordinance 187357 | - |
| Citywide effective | April 23 2024 | - |
| Banned material | Expanded polystyrene foam | - |
| Compostable label law | AB-1201 PRC 42357 | - |
| Certifications accepted | BPI or CMA only | - |
| EPS ban citation | - | LA County Code Title 12.84 |
| Compostability law | - | California AB-1201, ASTM D6400 |
| Certifying bodies | - | BPI, CMA, TUV |
| Foam fines | - | $100 to $200 daily |
| AB-1201 fines | - | Up to $5,000 daily |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can a small mom-and-pop restaurant still use foam clamshells?
No. The full citywide ban took effect April 23 2024 regardless of size. Earlier exemptions for facilities under 26 employees expired on that date.
Are PFAS-coated paper containers allowed?
Statewide AB-1200 banned intentionally added PFAS in food packaging starting January 2023. LA enforces no-PFAS fiber containers as the safe takeout default.
What if my supplier labels containers compostable without certification?
AB-1201 makes that label illegal. Switch to a certified BPI or CMA product, or remove the compostable claim from packaging and signage entirely.
Palmdale FAQ
Are paper containers always allowed?
Generally yes, but some plastic-coated paper containers (with PFAS or non-compostable liners) face restriction under California AB-1200 PFAS limits. Choose uncoated fiber, PLA-lined, or certified compostable products to ensure compliance with both state laws.
Can my reusable container service operate?
Yes. LA County Public Health permits reusable foodware exchange programs like DeliverZero, Vessel, and r.World under Retail Food Code variance procedures. Operators must demonstrate sanitization meeting NSF cleaning standards before launch.
Compare other topics
See how Los Angeles and Palmdale compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool