Vista Plastics Reduction Ordinance!

Starting August 1st 2021, restaurants will be required to #SkipTheStuff and distribute foodware takeout accessories – straws, utensils, condiments, etc. – only upon request. The ordinance also phases out EPS foam takeout by July, 2023. Our chapter worked closely with the Vista City Council to pass this ordinance.

On Tuesday, January 12th 2021, the San Diego North County Rise Above Plastics Volunteer Lead, Janis Jones, and others gave a presentation on plastic pollution to the Vista City Council at the invitation of Council Member Corinna Contreres.

This began the chain of events which led to an ordinance being drafted and considered by the council. The ordinance will take the following steps to reduce plastic pollution: 

Beginning on August 1, 2021, no food service provider in the City shall distribute single-use beverage straws, single-use stirrers, single-use cutlery, or accessory food service ware products with prepared food, except upon customer request.

Beginning as soon as practical, but no later than August 1, 2021, no person shall distribute single-use beverage straws, single-use stirrers, single-use cutlery, or accessory food service ware products with prepared food, except upon customer request, at any City facility or any City-sponsored event.

Beginning on July 1, 2023, no food service provider in the City shall distribute food service ware products made of polystyrene, known as Styrofoam, with prepared food.

Beginning as soon as practical, but no later than July 1, 2023, no person shall distribute food service ware products made of polystyrene with prepared food at any City facility or any City-sponsored event.