Stamford Implements New Single-Use Plastic Regulations

News Summary

The Stamford Board of Representatives has unanimously passed an ordinance regulating single-use plastics in restaurants and grocery stores. The guidelines mandate the use of reusable foodware, with some exceptions for customer-requested single-use items. Concerns about potential financial burdens on small businesses were raised, but supporters argue it will ultimately reduce costs associated with waste disposal. The ordinance, pending the mayor’s signature, aims to enhance environmental sustainability in the community and is structured to gradually phase out plastic use in dining and shopping experiences.

Stamford, Connecticut – The Stamford Board of Representatives has passed a significant ordinance aimed at regulating the use of single-use plastics in restaurants and grocery stores. The unanimous vote occurred on August 4, 2025, marking a crucial step towards environmental sustainability in the community.

The newly enacted guidelines dictate that all dine-in businesses and grocery stores in Stamford must primarily use reusable foodware for their service, with napkins being the lone exception. The ordinance does not enforce a complete ban on single-use items; rather, it strongly discourages their use while allowing them only upon customer request.

One of the primary concerns raised during the discussions was the potential financial burden on small business owners as they transition to the required reusable systems. Specifically, some representatives expressed worries about increased operational costs associated with the shift. However, supporters of the ordinance argue that in the long run, these measures can save both businesses and taxpayers by decreasing waste disposal costs and minimizing landfill usage.

To take effect, the ordinance requires the signature of Mayor Caroline Simmons within 10 days following the Board’s approval. Should the mayor enact the legislation, it is anticipated to bring noticeable changes to Stamford’s dining and shopping experiences.

Key aspects of the ordinance include:

• The prohibition of plastic-lined foodware in dine-in establishments. This includes items such as plastic-lined paper cups, plates, and bowls.
• Plastic straws and stirrers are only to be provided upon customer request and must be free of plastic.
• Black-colored plastic foodware is banned in all dine-in establishments.
• Takeout packaging must be biodegradable, with an additional restriction against plastic-lined foodware.
• Single-use plastic items may only be used for liquid containers such as soup, and only specific types of plastics with resin identification numbers (#1, #2, or #5) are permitted.

Grocery stores and vendors of prepared foods are required to provide items like straws and napkins only upon customer request or at self-service stations, ensuring these accessories are biodegradable or compostable. Prepared food vendors are defined as establishments that prepare and package food or beverages. Plastic accessories can also only be offered if specifically requested by customers, although exceptions are made for individuals with disabilities.

It is important to note that the ordinance does not extend to catering orders and meal kits. Furthermore, businesses are allowed to use their existing stock of plastic containers, cups, trays, and bowls for a period of up to 36 months following the ordinance’s enactment, provided they meet the designated standards for qualified plastics.

In a related note, Stamford Public Schools will have a span of up to 10 years to transition to reusable foodware, while also being required to minimize the use of single-use items during this period. The city’s Director of Health holds the authority to grant a three-month extension for compliance in extraordinary situations.

Enforcement of the ordinance will be managed by the Stamford Health Department along with any designated city agency. For businesses that do not comply, the first offense will result in a written notice. Subsequent violations will incur a fine of $250, with all fines being directed towards funding sustainability initiatives within the city.

This ordinance represents Stamford’s commitment to reducing plastic waste and supporting sustainable practices, positioning the city as a proactive player in the national conversation on environmental stewardship. The changes are crucial not only for local businesses but also for the community’s overall ecological footprint.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Long Island News 12
• Wikipedia: Single-use plastic
• Patch
• Google Search: single-use plastic ban Stamford
• CT Post
• Google Scholar: plastic waste management
• Stamford Advocate
• Encyclopedia Britannica: environmental sustainability
• Stamford Advocate
• Google News: Stamford plastic regulations

Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH

The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.