Annapolis, MD — Annapolis’ ban on Styrofoam food containers goes into full effect on September 1. These containers are not allowed to be used at food service businesses and grocery and convenience stores in the City of Annapolis
Annapolis City Council passed a ban on on expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam food service products last October. They allowed a grace period from October 22, 2018 to September 1, 2019 in order for businesses to use up current stocks.
After September 1, businesses using Styrofoam foam for food service will be fined $100 for the first offense and $200 for subsequent violations.
EPS foam is banned in the following products: cups, bowls, plates and takeout containers, clamshells and trays. The ban impacts restaurants (full, fast and self-service), grocery stores, vending trucks and food carts, and institutional cafeterias and other businesses that sell or provide food for consumption on- or off-premise.
Businesses may use containers composed of compostable materials, paper, plant (sugarcane, rice, bamboo), as well as aluminum, and glass. Contact the City of Annapolis Office of Environmental Policy if you would like a list of vendors that provide non-EPS containers.
Anne Arundel County and the State of Maryland have passed similar bans with future effective dates.