Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Riverside County, CA Single-Use Items: Polystyrene Foam Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: California PRC 42041 →

Recently verified

Key Facts

State authority: PRC 42041 / SB 54
Recycling threshold: 25 percent target
Status: Threshold not met
Enforcement: CalRecycle

City-specific rules exist: Riverside has its own polystyrene foam rules rules that differ from Riverside County's county-level regulations. If you live in Riverside, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

California Senate Bill 54 phases out expanded polystyrene foodware statewide by 2025 unless 25 percent recycling targets are met, applying to food facilities in Riverside County.

Full Breakdown

Public Resources Code section 42041 et seq. (SB 54, the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act) requires expanded polystyrene foodware producers to demonstrate 25 percent recycling rates by 2025 or stop sales in California. CalRecycle confirmed the 25 percent threshold was not met, triggering the prohibition on EPS foodware sales. Riverside County does not have a separate local foam ban in unincorporated areas but enforces the state restriction. Restaurants must transition to compliant alternatives such as paper, fiber, or aluminum containers. Some Coachella Valley cities have their own bans predating SB 54.

Violations & Fines

Selling or distributing EPS foodware after the trigger date: civil penalties under CalRecycle enforcement, daily fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still buy foam coolers and packing materials?

SB 54 targets foodware specifically. Foam coolers and shipping packaging fall under separate producer responsibility schedules with later compliance dates.

Does the ban apply to home kitchens?

No. The restriction targets food facility sales and distribution. Personal use of existing foam containers is not regulated.

How does Riverside County compare?

See how Riverside County's polystyrene foam rules rules stack up against other locations.

Compare to Another Location View California Overview

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

Riverside County, CA Single-Use Items: Polystyrene Foam Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

Related Riverside County Ordinances

Public Conduct: Aggressive Panhandling

Public Conduct: Loud Party Ordinance

Public Conduct: Outdoor Smoking Restrictions

Public Conduct: Public Marijuana Use

Public Conduct: Public Alcohol Use

Business Licensing & Operations: Auto Repair on Residential Property

More Single-Use Items in Riverside County

Polystyrene Foam Rules in Other Cities

How does Riverside County compare?

See something wrong?