Plastic Straw Ordinance: Fast Facts
Beginning December 1, 2019, a new straw ordinance will take effect in the City of Melrose. It is not a ban on plastic straws, but rather an attempt to reduce waste and encourage people to think carefully about their straw use.
Under the new ordinance,
Restaurants and other businesses that serve drinks for immediate consumption will not automatically provide plastic straws to customers.
If a customer asks for a straw, the business may give them one.
Straws made of paper or other non-plastic materials can be freely provided as well.
Customers may bring their own straws for use in restaurants or other businesses.
The ordinance does not prohibit the sale of packages of plastic straws in retail stores.
Businesses are prohibited from providing plastic stirrers with drinks.
The Board of Health is responsible for enforcing this ordinance.
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions. Or if you are interested in joining our efforts — Zero Waste Melrose welcomes all types of volunteers, including those who only want to volunteer a few times per year and those who want to be very active by attending monthly meetings and participating in many activities.
Joining the committee is a great way to play an active role in the community and make a difference in reducing our environmental impact.
Meetings
Zero Waste Melrose meets the first Thursday of every month at 7 pm via Zoom. Please fill out the form to receive more information via email including the monthly Zoom link to attend the virtual meeting.