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 FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
