The LA “straws on request” initiative is now in full swing, meaning all restaurants are required to withhold plastic straws, unless a customer requests them.
The first part of the initiative went into effect on Earth Day in April when businesses with 26 employees or more—including restaurants like In-N-Out and Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles—were required to comply with the new law.
Now, as of October 1, the initiative applies to small eateries, cafes, and even hole-in-the-wall joints with two tables. Whether you’re eating in, ordering takeout, or picking up lunch from a food truck, the law will apply.
California adopted a statewide single-use plastic straw policy in 2018, but Los Angeles’ law is more restrictive since it also applies to drive-thru fast-food chains.
The new law will be enforced based on complaints. Restaurants will face fines of $25 per violation up to $300.
