New Jersey Enforces Plastic Cutlery Ban on Aug. 1, Fining Violators Up to $250
Updated
Updated · FOX 29 Philadelphia · Jul 29
New Jersey Enforces Plastic Cutlery Ban on Aug. 1, Fining Violators Up to $250
3 articles · Updated · FOX 29 Philadelphia · Jul 29
Summary
August 1 starts New Jersey’s statewide “Skip the Stuff” law, ending automatic distribution of single-use plastic utensils, condiment packets and napkins with takeout and delivery orders.
Online ordering apps must default to no utensils, and customers will receive those items only if they actively request them.
Restaurants with seating for 10 or more must provide reusable utensils for dine-in service, while self-serve dispensers can still offer plastic items one at a time.
Schools, licensed health care facilities and correctional facilities are exempt, and food courts do not have to comply until August 1, 2028.
Businesses face a warning for a first violation, then fines of $100 and $250 within 12 months, with proceeds going to the Clean Communities Program Fund.