Washington RCW 70A.550 limits single-use food service ware including plastic straws and utensils to upon-request distribution at restaurants and food service businesses.
Under RCW 70A.550, effective January 1, 2022, food service businesses in Washington may only provide single-use plastic straws, utensils, condiment packets, and beverage cup lids upon customer request. Self-service stations and proactive distribution are prohibited. The law applies to dine-in, takeout, drive-through, and delivery operations. Drive-through services may include a default ask whether items are needed. The intent is to reduce unnecessary single-use plastic waste while accommodating customers who genuinely need such items, including individuals with disabilities for whom plastic straws may be medically necessary. Department of Ecology administers and enforces the law. Local jurisdictions may impose stricter requirements.
Civil penalties up to $250 for first violations and $500 for subsequent violations apply. Department of Ecology emphasizes education and warnings before financial penalties.
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See how Bellingham's plastic straw rules rules stack up against other locations.
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