Santa Monica, CA Single-Use Items: Plastic Straw Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Default straw policy
- Straws and utensils provided on request only
- Straw type required
- Marine degradable (no plastic), upon request
- Disability accommodation
- Plastic straws may still be given to disabled customers who request them
- Applies to
- All food/beverage providers, City facilities, events
- Violation fine
- Up to $250 per infraction
Summary
Santa Monica food and beverage providers may only give out single-use straws and utensils upon customer request: they may not be automatically provided with orders. Plastic straws may still be kept and dispensed to customers with disabilities who request them.
(b) A food or beverage provider shall provide marine degradable disposable straws and utensils to customers only upon request. A food or beverage provider may ask customers whether disposable straws or disposable utensils are needed. ... (d) Food and beverage providers, as well as City facilities, City-managed concessions, City-sponsored events, and City-permitted events, may retain and dispense plastic straws as an accommodation to people with disabilities who request them to enjoy equal access to food and beverage services within the City.
Full Breakdown
The rule requires that marine degradable (not plastic) straws and utensils be provided on request only. Providers may proactively ask customers if they need disposable straws or utensils. Plastic straws remain available as an accommodation for people with disabilities who request them to ensure equal access to food and beverage services. The requirement applies to all food and beverage providers in the City as well as City facilities, concessions, and permitted events.
Violations & Fines
Violation of the food service ware chapter is an infraction punishable by a fine up to $250 per violation. Administrative citations may also be issued under Chapter 1.09 of the Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will restaurants automatically give me a straw with my drink?
Can I still get a plastic straw if I need one for a disability?
Do I need a marine degradable straw or just any straw upon request?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Monica to another location·View the California single-use items overview
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