Polystyrene Foam Rules: Phoenix vs Scottsdale
How do polystyrene foam rules rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Phoenix and Scottsdale have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
ARS section 9-500.38 preempts Phoenix from banning expanded polystyrene foam cups, plates, or clamshells. Restaurants and grocers may freely use EPS foam containers, and the city limits restrictions to its own facilities through procurement policy.
View full Phoenix rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
ARS section 9-500.38 preempts Maricopa County from banning expanded polystyrene foam cups, plates, or clamshells. Restaurants and grocers may freely use EPS foam containers, and the county limits restrictions to its own facilities through procurement policy.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Preemption statute | ARS section 9-500.38 | ARS section 9-500.38 |
| City foam ban | None for private use | - |
| City facilities | Voluntary procurement preference | - |
| Litter rules | Phoenix Code chapter 31 | MCESD environmental code |
| County foam ban | - | None for private use |
| County facilities | - | Voluntary procurement preference |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Can my Phoenix restaurant use foam takeout clamshells?
Yes. ARS section 9-500.38 preempts any Phoenix ban on expanded polystyrene food service ware. The city may not require restaurants to switch to compostable containers.
Are foam coolers sold in Phoenix stores legal?
Yes. Retail sale of foam coolers is unrestricted in Phoenix under state preemption. Buyers are encouraged to recycle through voluntary programs at participating retailers and waste haulers.
Scottsdale FAQ
Can my Maricopa County restaurant use foam takeout clamshells?
Yes. ARS section 9-500.38 preempts any county ban on expanded polystyrene food service ware. The county may not require restaurants to switch to compostable containers.
Are foam coolers sold in Maricopa County stores legal?
Yes. Retail sale of foam coolers is unrestricted under state preemption. Buyers are encouraged to recycle through voluntary programs at participating retailers and waste haulers across the county.
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