Foam Free Alexandria

In 2021, the Virginia General Assembly passed legislation banning the use of expanded polystyrene (EPS) products in phases between 2025-2026. The City of Alexandria will work with businesses and residents to assist with the transition, ensure compliance, and meet sustainability goals.
Page updated on July 15, 2025 at 4:04 PM
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Extruded polystyrene food containers stacked in an outdoor trash bin, with a river and bridge in the background. The text "Are you ready for a Foam Free Alexandria?" is in the foreground.

 

In 2021, the Virginia General Assembly passed legislation banning the use of expanded polystyrene products by food vendors with 20 or more locations by July 1, 2025. All other food vendors are required to stop using these products by July 1, 2026. 

What's expanded polystyrene?

Expanded polystyrene (EPS)— also known as foam or by the common brand name Styrofoam™— is a non-recyclable material commonly used in single-use containers, cups, plates, and other serving ware. 

Why ban EPS products?

As waste, EPS products take over 500 years to break down in landfills. The lightweight material is easily blown out of trash cans and into the environment, where it pollutes waterways and is dangerous to wildlife. Styrene, which is a major component of EPS, can also be hazardous to humans in large amounts. 

Information for Businesses

Any food vendor who serves prepared food will need to take steps to phase out EPS products. That means those vendors will need to begin locating alternative options to EPS products at: 

  • Restaurants
  • Food trucks
  • Catering companies
  • Grocery store salad bars and prepared food sections
  • Other food service locations 

What are the alternatives?

Instead of using EPS products, look for:

  • Reusable containers
  • Recyclable plastics
  • Recycled paper products
  • Compostable products
  • Bamboo and wheat straw
  • Foil and metal

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When will the ban take effect?

  • By July 1, 2025, food establishments with 20 or more locations are required to discontinue the use of expanded polystyrene (EPS) containers. While the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VADEQ) has not yet provided specific guidance on enforcement, the City strongly encourages all affected establishments to take proactive and meaningful steps toward eliminating the use of EPS products.
  • By July 1, 2026, all remaining food establishments will also be required to comply with the regulation. The City encourages businesses to begin exploring and implementing alternative packaging options as the VADEQ is expected to provide further guidance in the near future.
     

Will the City provide guidance to business owners during the transition to the effective ban date?

Outreach materials will be developed and made available on this website to assist in guiding and informing businesses. In the interim, the VADEQ has provided a reference guide from New York, which is accessible on this site along with the VADEQ Fact Sheet in the Additional Resources section below.

Is the EPS container ban statewide?

Yes, the ban on EPS containers applies to all Virginia food vendors.

Where can I find more information about the ban?

More information about the EPS container ban can be found on the Virginia DEQ website.

What if my business is unable to comply with the ban?

Any food vendor operating within the City of Alexandria may request an exemption. The City may grant an exemption if the vendor can demonstrate, to the City’s satisfaction, that compliance would cause undue economic hardship. While Phase 1 of the ban primarily affects larger food vendors with 20 or more locations in Virginia, the City recognizes that Phase 2 will impact small businesses. As further guidance on Phase 2 enforcement is provided by VADEQ, the City intends to offer additional resources to local businesses through this website.

For additional information or inquiries about exemptions, please contact wastesmart@alexandriava.gov.

Are there any fines or penalties for not complying?

Any person who violates any provision of this section, upon such finding by an appropriate circuit court, shall be assessed a civil penalty of not more than $50 for each day of such violation.

How do I report a food establishment that is in violation of the ban?

Non-compliant businesses can be reported directly to wastesmart@alexandriava.gov. Please note that during Phase 1, this requirement applies only to chains with 20 or more locations in Virginia.

Additional Resources

Virginia department of environmental quality

City of Alexandria

Contact

For additional questions or to provide feedback regarding the Expanded Polystyrene ban, please reach out to wastesmart@alexandriava.gov.