Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

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

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

Key Facts

Statute
Cal. PRC 42270
Scope
Full-service only
Default
On request
Penalty
Warning, then small fine

Summary

California Assembly Bill 1884 prevents Santa Ana full-service restaurants from giving customers single-use plastic straws unless the customer specifically requests one.

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. (f) "Standard condiment" means relishes, spices, sauces, confections, or seasonings that require no additional preparation and that are usually used on a food item after preparation.

Source: Santa Ana Municipal CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

California Public Resources Code 42270 requires full-service restaurants statewide, including those in Santa Ana, to provide single-use plastic straws only on request. The first violation in a calendar year draws a written warning, and subsequent violations carry small daily fines capped annually. Quick-service restaurants and beverage stores are not bound by the state rule, though many follow the practice voluntarily. The law does not ban plastic straws outright; it shifts the default to no-straw service. Customers with disabilities can always request a straw and restaurants must keep them available.

Violations & Fines

Automatically placing plastic straws on tables or with drinks at a full-service restaurant, or refusing a straw to a customer who requests one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this apply to fast food in Santa Ana?
Not directly. The state rule covers full-service restaurants. Many fast-food chains follow it voluntarily, but compliance is not legally required at quick-service spots.
Can a restaurant refuse to give a straw?
No. Customers can request a single-use plastic straw and restaurants must comply, particularly for guests with disabilities who need them.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Santa Ana

All Santa Ana rules

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

Get notified when Plastic Straw Rules in Santa Ana, CA changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

Plastic Straw Rules in Nearby Cities

How other cities in Orange County handle plastic straw rules.

Anaheim, CA
Heavy Restrictions