Washington's RCW 70A.245 phased out expanded polystyrene foam food containers, coolers, and packing peanuts statewide by 2024, applying in Spokane without a separate local ordinance.
RCW 70A.245 phased in a ban on selling and distributing expanded polystyrene foam products. As of June 2023, foam packing peanuts and coolers became prohibited, and as of June 2024, foam food service containers including clamshells, plates, and cups also became prohibited statewide. Food service businesses in Spokane must use compliant alternatives such as recyclable plastic, fiber, or compostable products. Department of Ecology enforces and has issued retailer guidance. Limited exceptions exist for raw meat trays at the manufacturer level and certain medical packaging.
Selling, distributing, or serving food in banned foam products can mean Department of Ecology warnings, then escalating fines under the statewide enforcement framework.
Spokane, WA
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Spokane, WA
Spokane follows Washington's statewide ban on thin single-use plastic carryout bags under RCW 70A.530, with an eight-cent pass-through charge on paper and re...
See how Spokane's polystyrene foam rules rules stack up against other locations.
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