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Vermont Statewide Rule

Vermont Expanded Polystyrene Food Container Ban Statewide

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Vermont (2026)

Key Facts

Authority Act 69
Authority: Act 69 of 2019, 10 V.S.A. 6692
Eps Foam Food
EPS foam food containers banned statewide
Effective July 1
Effective July 1, 2020
Coolers And Shipping
Coolers and shipping foam exempt
Agency Of Natural
Agency of Natural Resources enforces
Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: Vermont General Assembly

Summary

Vermont prohibits expanded polystyrene foam food service containers statewide under Act 69 of 2019, effective July 1, 2020 for restaurants and retailers.

(a) A person shall not sell or offer for sale in the State an expanded polystyrene food service product. (b) A store or food service establishment shall not sell or provide food or beverages in an expanded polystyrene food service product. (c) This section shall not prohibit a person from storing or packaging a food or beverage in an expanded polystyrene food service product for distribution out of State.

Source: Vermont General AssemblyView official code

Full Breakdown

Act 69 of 2019 banned expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam food service products statewide effective July 1, 2020. Food service establishments, retailers, and food manufacturers may not sell or distribute prepared food in EPS containers including cups, plates, bowls, trays, and clamshell containers. The ban applies to dine-in, takeout, and delivery service. Compostable, recyclable paper, and reusable alternatives are encouraged. Coolers and shipping packaging containing EPS remain permitted. The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources enforces compliance, with penalties applied after notice and opportunity to cure violations.

Violations & Penalties

Restaurants and retailers using banned EPS food containers face civil penalties up to $200 per day after warning notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Vermont restaurants use foam takeout containers?
No. Expanded polystyrene foam food service containers have been banned statewide since July 1, 2020 under Act 69.
Are foam coolers still legal in Vermont?
Yes. The ban targets food service containers; non-food packaging like coolers and shipping foam remains permitted.

Sources

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