The City of Newton passed an ordinance earlier this year that aims to reduce single use plastic packaging, particularly from restaurants. Newton restaurants must comply with the following:
- All dishware/containers (larger than 4 oz) must be reusable, compostable, or recyclable as determined by the MassDEP Recycle Smart MA program or City of Newton Department of Public Works. Black plastic, polystyrene “styrofoam” containers, and plastic bags are not permitted. (See below for a chart of permitted and banned items.)
- All single use silverware, condiment packages, and other accessory items may be provided only upon request of the customer or at self-serve stations.
- Single use silverware, condiment packages, and other accessory items cannot be prepackaged in sets.
- Full service restaurants must use reusable food and beverage serviceware for dine-in customers.
Though the ordinance has been in place for over 8 months, there have been a number of sightings of banned items. Businesses may not be aware that they are out of compliance with the law. Please help businesses improve! We ask that patrons:
- remind the business that they are using non-compliant items, and/or
- let the Newton Health Department know that the business is not compliant. (Email health@newtonma.gov or call (617) 796-1420.)
See the complete ordinance and more information on the Newton Health Department website.