Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

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

Some Restrictions

Source: California Public Resources Code 42270 →

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Key Facts

Statute: Pub Res 42270-42273
Enacting Law: AB 1884 (2018)
Covered Businesses: Full-service restaurants
Annual Fine Cap: $300

California state rule: San Mateo does not have a local ordinance for plastic straw rules. This topic is governed by California state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Summary

California Public Resources Code 42270-42273, enacted by AB 1884 (2018), prohibits full-service restaurants from providing single-use plastic straws unless requested by the customer. The on-request rule applies uniformly to dine-in restaurants statewide.

Full Breakdown

Public Resources Code 42270-42273 requires full-service restaurants in California to refrain from providing single-use plastic straws automatically. Straws may only be supplied upon customer request. The law applies to dine-in restaurants where servers take orders at the table; quick-service and fast-food establishments are not directly covered by AB 1884. Local governments retain authority to adopt stricter ordinances banning all plastic straws, including in fast-food settings, and several California cities have done so. SB 54 (2022) further regulates plastic foodware including straws.

Violations & Fines

Violations result in a notice for the first two offenses; subsequent violations carry fines up to $25 per day, capped at $300 annually under Public Resources Code 42272.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are plastic straws banned in California?

Not entirely. Full-service restaurants may not provide plastic straws unless requested. Customers can still ask for one, and fast-food rules vary by locality.

Can California cities ban plastic straws outright?

Yes. State law sets a baseline on-request rule, and local governments may impose complete bans on plastic straws in additional venues.

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

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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