Ordinances

The following ordinances were adopted by the City Council in order to protect the environment and health of the community.

Mandatory Organic Waste Disposal Reduction, Pending Adoption December 2021

This ordinance addresses the regulatory changes mandated by Senate Bill 1383 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, like methane, by setting organic waste disposal reduction targets for California. SB 1383 establishes targets to achieve 50% reduction in the statewide disposal of organic waste from 2014 levels by 2020, and a 75% reduction by 2025. There is also a requirement to rescue at least 20% of edible food to feed those in need by 2025. By January 1, 2022, local jurisdictions are required to implement a suite of programs and adopt an ordinance to comply with specific requirements to achieve SB 1383’s statewide mandates. 

Regulating the Use of Disposable Food Service Ware by Food Facilities, Adopted September 2021

This ordinance addresses plastic pollution by eliminating the unnecessary distribution and use of single-use plastics, and builds upon previous City regulations that prohibited food vendors from using polystyrene-based disposable food service ware.

Reusable Bags, Adopted 2013

The purpose of the ordinance is to protect the local environment by reducing waste, conserving resources, and protecting the bay and ocean from plastic bag litter. As of January 1, 2015, the minimum charge of 10 cents per reusable bag will increase to 25 cents per bag. The ordinance applies to all retail stores in the City and all retailers may keep all revenue earned from bag sales.

Prohibition on Use of Polystyrene-Based Disposable Food Service Ware By Food Vendors, Adopted 2012

The ordinance will help protect the health and safety of the residents, wildlife, and habitat in Daly City while reducing the amount of waste sent to the landfill. The ordinance includes the following:

  • Does not apply to non-food businesses that use polystyrene for packaging
  • Does not include lids, straws, or utensils
  • Does not prohibit the use of polystyrene for pre-packaged foods (e.g., prepackaged meats or eggs in markets)
  • Prohibits food vendors from dispensing prepared food in polystyrene containers labeled as Number 6 including:
    • Cafes
    • Delis
    • Fast-Food Establishments
    • Food Trucks
    • Markets
    • Restaurants
    • Vendors at Fairs

Recycling & Diversion of Construction & Demolition, Adopted 2006

This ordinance requires that construction and demolition projects recycle or reuse 60% of the waste generated from the project. Many of these materials can be reused or recycled, thus prolonging our supply of natural resources and potentially saving money in the process, such as:

  • Asphalt Shingles
  • Asphalt
  • Concrete
  • Gypsum Wallboard
  • Metals
  • Wood