Foam food containers are no longer permitted as of July 1; Vendors may apply for exemption.
Restaurants, cafés, food trucks and other food service businesses in Virginia Beach should be aware that Virginia’s statewide ban on expanded polystyrene (EPS), commonly known as Styrofoam® food containers, is now fully in effect.
The legislation was adopted by the Virginia General Assembly in 2021 and implemented in two phases. Food vendors with 20 or more locations were required to discontinue the use of the foam food containers by July 1, 2025. Beginning July 1, 2026, the requirement now applies to all remaining food vendors throughout the Commonwealth.
At a Glance
- Effective Date: July 1, 2026
- Who Is Affected: All Virginia food vendors serving prepared, ready-to-eat food
- What’s Included: Expanded polystyrene plates, bowls, trays, cups and hinged takeout containers
- Need an Exemption? Businesses experiencing an economic hardship may apply for an annual exemption through the City of Virginia Beach at VirginiaBeach.gov/EPSban.
Statewide Ban on Styrofoam®
Who is affected?…