Which single-use plastics are affected?

Typical items include plastic bags, straws, cutlery, stir sticks and certain foodware; check the local bylaw for the exact list.

When does a business need to comply?

Compliance dates are set in the bylaw or implementation schedule; businesses should confirm effective dates with the City.

Can a business apply for an exemption?

Some bylaws allow limited exemptions or variances; contact By-law Enforcement to learn application requirements or to request an administrative review.

Surrey Bylaw: Single-Use Plastic Guide for Businesses

Environmental Protection British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026

Surrey, British Columbia businesses must prepare for municipal restrictions on single-use plastics that affect retail, food service and events. This guide explains the typical items targeted, practical compliance steps, how enforcement works, and where to get official help. It focuses on actions businesses should take now: update supplier orders, train staff, change point-of-sale practices, and post customer notices. When exact bylaw text or penalty details are needed, contact the City of Surrey By-law Enforcement office or consult the City bylaws page listed in Resources below.

What is restricted

Municipal single-use plastic rules commonly restrict or ban distribution of disposable items intended for immediate use. Businesses should review procurement and service models for these items:

Disposable plastic bags, retail checkout bags and bin liners.
Single-use plastic cutlery, stir sticks, and straws (including at-table and takeout).
Foam and rigid plastic foodware such as takeout containers and cups.
Free promotional single-use items and plastic-lined produce bags.

Many municipal rules include phased-in dates for businesses to switch to reusables or approved alternatives.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is typically managed by the City of Surrey By-law Enforcement unit or the municipal department named in the controlling bylaw. Specific monetary fines, escalation for repeat or continuing offences, and non-monetary remedies vary by instrument and may not be published in a single public summary; when a page does not list amounts or sections, it is recommended to consult the bylaw text or contact enforcement directly.

Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; check the official bylaw text or contact By-law Enforcement for exact schedules.
Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offences may be treated differently; specific ranges are not specified on the cited page.
Non-monetary sanctions: compliance orders, seizure of prohibited items, stop-sale orders or court action are typical enforcement tools.
Enforcer and complaints: By-law Enforcement handles inspections and complaints; businesses should use the City complaint/contact portal or phone the listed office for inspections and follow-up.
Appeal and review: appeal routes depend on the bylaw; time limits for appeals or requesting reviews are set in the bylaw or municipal procedures and may be "not specified on the cited page" without direct bylaw reference.

If you receive a notice, act quickly—municipal orders often include short compliance timelines.

Applications & Forms

Where a bylaw allows variances or exemptions, the City will publish forms or application procedures. If no form is required or no official application is published for single-use item exemptions, businesses must contact By-law Enforcement or the listed City office for guidance; in many cases, no standardized public form has been published.

Common violations and typical outcomes

Continuing distribution of banned single-use items after the effective date — may result in orders and fines.
Failure to display required notices or provide receipts for reusable containers — compliance notice then fine if uncorrected.
Non-cooperation during inspection — possible escalation to court enforcement.

FAQ

Which single-use plastics are affected?: Typical items include plastic bags, straws, cutlery, stir sticks and certain foodware; check the local bylaw for the exact list.
When does a business need to comply?: Compliance dates are set in the bylaw or implementation schedule; businesses should confirm effective dates with the City.
Can a business apply for an exemption?: Some bylaws allow limited exemptions or variances; contact By-law Enforcement to learn application requirements or to request an administrative review.

How-To

Audit current single-use plastic items in inventory and at customer service points.
Source compliant alternatives (compostable, certified reusable or durable options) and update supplier contracts.
Train staff on new serving procedures, customer communications and refusal scripts.
Update pricing and point-of-sale systems if fees for alternative packaging or bag charges are adopted.
If uncertain, contact By-law Enforcement or the City’s business licensing office for clarification or to request guidance.

Key Takeaways

Start a supply audit now and phase out targeted single-use items before bylaw deadlines.
Use the City’s official contacts for precise bylaw text, enforcement procedures and any application forms.