On November 2, 2021, City Council unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 2380 to limit the use of disposable plastics and reduce waste within the City. The Ordinance is intended to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated in the City by imposing two new plastic waste reducing restrictions over a two-phase period in 2022.
Plastics Initial Flyer

Phase One: Limiting Disposable Food Accessories to By-Request

Effective February 3, 2022, all food providers within the City may only provide disposable food accessory items (utensils, napkins, condiments, etc.) by request of the customer or by affirmative answer when the customer is asked.  Phase One is consistent with the recently passed AB1276 which will make the by-request requirement statewide effective June 1, 2022.

Phase Two: Ban of Polystyrene Containers for Prepared Food and Beverages

Effective December 3, 2022, Polystyrene food and beverage containers will no longer be allowed for distribution of prepared food within the City. This applies to any food provider within Arcadia, including restaurants, retail vendors, non-profit food providers, and more. Please see the full Ordinance text for the definition of food provider. There are some exceptions, including food packaged outside the City limits and containers provided under a contract entered into before the effective date of Phase Two. Exemptions may be considered, see the links below for more information.

The use of recyclable alternative packaging is preferred. Please contact your commercial waste hauler for more information on which packaging materials and/or containers are recyclable in the City.

Commercial  Waste Haulers

The City has three permitted commercial haulers to assist with your refuse and recycling needs:

For information on refuse, recycling, and the City's sustainability programs visit ArcadiaCA.gov/SustainableArcadia.