Single-Use Items in Washington (2026)

3 rules on the books across Washington. Select a rule to read the full details.

Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions

Plastic Bag Rules

Whether plastic carryout bags are banned, taxed, or exempt from local regulation under state preemption.

Washington RCW 70A.530 bans single-use plastic carryout bags statewide and requires retailers to charge a pass-through…

State rules on expanded polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) cups, takeout containers, and packaging, including statewide bans and preemption of local bans.

Washington RCW 70A.245 bans expanded polystyrene foam food service containers, packing peanuts, and coolers in phases…

State rules on plastic straws, including on-request-only mandates, full bans, and states that preempt local straw ordinances.

Washington RCW 70A.550 limits single-use food service ware including plastic straws and utensils to upon-request…