Edmonton: Single-use Item Reduction

Edmonton’s single-use item reduction bylaw takes effect on July 1, building on the efforts many businesses and residents are already making to reduce waste. This Bylaw (20117) will help reduce waste by targeting items that can easily be avoided or replaced with reusable options. The goal is to reduce single-use items, not switch from plastic to non-plastic items. 

This bylaw  applies to most organizations that are required to hold a business licence or civic event permit (for 1,500+ attendees) issued by the City of Edmonton.

Bylaw Requirements
As of July 1, businesses are required to comply with the following bylaw regulations:

• Single-use plastic shopping bags (including biodegradable and compostable plastic shopping bags) can no longer be distributed, and businesses must charge at least 15 cents for a paper shopping bag and at least $1 for a new reusable shopping bag.

• Styrofoam plates, cups and containers can no longer be used. Restaurants must serve dine-in drink orders in reusable cups and have a written policy for accepting reusable customer cups (but customers can still get single-use cups for drinks to go).

• Accessories (like utensils, straws, pre-packaged condiments and napkins) will only be available by request or self-serve.

Enforcement

The City is asking establishments to do everything they can to comply with the bylaw as of July 1. If complaints of non-compliance are received, the City will first respond using direct outreach and education. They note that if your business is taking reasonable steps to reach compliance, you are unlikely to receive a warning or fine for violation at this time.

Exemptions exist for charities, organizations without a business license and some types of business.

Learn more here >>
Questions? Direct them to singleuse@edmonton.ca