Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Arizona (2026)
Arizona's auxiliary container preemption blocks cities and counties from banning, taxing, or regulating plastic straws and stirrers.
Full Breakdown
Plastic straws fall within the definition of auxiliary containers in ARS 9-500.38 and ARS 11-269.16, which cover reusable and single-use items used to contain, transport, or consume food and beverages. Arizona local governments cannot impose straw bans, on-request rules, or fees on straws. Restaurants may voluntarily switch to paper or compostable alternatives, but enforcement of mandatory restrictions is preempted. The legislature framed the law as protecting consumer choice and business uniformity statewide.
Violations & Penalties
Local straw ordinances are void and unenforceable; state shared revenue may be withheld from non-compliant cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can restaurants choose paper straws?
Yes. Private businesses can switch materials; only government mandates are preempted under Arizona law.
Are airport or stadium straw rules different?
Public venues run by political subdivisions are bound by preemption; concessionaires may set their own internal policies.