Does Bakersfield, CA have its own plastic straw rules ordinance?

No. Bakersfield, CA does not appear to have a local plastic straw rules ordinance, California state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from California AB 1884.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA Single-Use Items: Plastic Straw Rules (2026)

Light Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Statute: AB 1884 PRC 42270
Applies to: Full-service restaurants
First two violations: Written warning
Annual fine cap: 300 dollars

Summary

Under California AB 1884, full-service Bakersfield restaurants may only provide single-use plastic straws when a customer specifically requests one. The rule does not apply to fast food, pre-packaged drinks, or accessibility needs.

For purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply: (d) 'Single-use' means designed to be used once and then discarded, and not designed for repeated use and sanitizing. (e) 'Single-use foodware accessory' means all of the following single-use items provided alongside ready-to-eat food: (1) Utensils, which is defined as forks, knives, spoons, and sporks. (2) Chopsticks. (3) Condiment cups and packets. (4) Straws. (5) Stirrers. (6) Splash sticks. (7) Cocktail sticks.

Source: California AB 1884View official code

Full Breakdown

California Assembly Bill 1884, codified at Public Resources Code section 42270, requires full-service dine-in restaurants statewide, including those in Bakersfield, to provide plastic straws only on request. Servers cannot proactively place plastic straws on tables or in drinks. The law preserves accessibility for customers with disabilities, who can request and receive a straw without justification. Quick-service and fast-food restaurants, drive-throughs, and pre-packaged beverages are exempt. Compostable, paper, and reusable alternative straws may still be offered freely. Bakersfield code enforcement can issue notices, but the state law contemplates education-first compliance for first-time violators.

Violations & Fines

Restaurants face a written notice for the first two violations and a 25-dollar daily fine thereafter, capped at 300 dollars per year, enforced by local health and code agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still get a straw at my Bakersfield diner?

Yes. The law only prevents servers from automatically providing plastic straws. Just ask, and the server can bring one. Disabled customers cannot be questioned about their need.

Does this apply to fast food?

No. AB 1884 applies only to full-service dine-in restaurants. Drive-throughs, counter-service, and quick-service operations may continue to offer straws freely under the state law.

Sources & Official References

[1]Public Resources Code 42270

Other rules in Bakersfield

Animal Ordinances: Chickens & LivestockSignificant Restrictions Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome Restrictions Utensils-On-RequestSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Aircraft NoiseLight Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome Restrictions Fence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSignificant Restrictions Animal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSome Restrictions

All Bakersfield rules

California rules heatmap·Compare Bakersfield to another location·View the California single-use items overview

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