Hawaii Plastic Straw Rules Law: Statewide Single-Use Items Rules (2026)

Full Breakdown

Plastic straw regulation in Hawaii is entirely a matter of county ordinance. Maui County's Title 20.25 includes plastic straws among prohibited disposable foodware items provided by food vendors after specified phase-in dates. Honolulu and Hawaii County ordinances on disposable foodware likewise apply to straws and utensils, often using an upon-request standard requiring vendors to provide straws only when customers ask. Kauai County addresses straws through county facility rules. Hawaii's legislature has discussed but not enacted a statewide straws-on-request or ban statute. Compliance for vendors generally requires switching to paper, compostable, or reusable alternatives and training staff to ask before providing straws.

Violations & Penalties

County ordinance fines typically begin at $100 with escalation; repeat offenders may face permit consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are plastic straws banned in Hawaii?

Not by state law, but several counties restrict their automatic distribution by food vendors.

Can I get a straw if I ask?

Yes. Most county rules use an upon-request approach allowing straws when requested.

Will Hawaii pass a statewide ban?

Bills have been introduced but no statewide law has been enacted as of 2026.

Sources

Source

Hawaii Plastic Straws: County Foodware Ordinances