Photo: Romana Klee

A Fayetteville ban on expanded polystyrene foam won’t carry any immediate penalties for businesses that are unable to meet the new requirements.

The new law went into effect on July 1, but Mayor Lioneld Jordan said he’s offering a grace period to business owners who need more time to replace single-use polystyrene products with something more environmentally friendly.

“If you will make a good faith effort to implement the new rules, the city absolutely will work with you on extending the timeline for full compliance,” Jordan wrote in a letter Monday to business owners.

Jordan said anyone who needs additional time should contact Peter Nierengarten, the city’s environmental director (see info below), to share details about their efforts so far and request a grace period that fits their specific circumstances.

The ban was passed by the City Council last fall, and was originally scheduled to take effect on May 1, but the mayor and council agreed to postpone it until July 1 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“I understand those struggles and worries are still at the forefront for you,” wrote Jordan. “Business activity has not returned to normal levels. COVID-19 is still with us, and positive cases across Northwest Arkansas remain at disturbingly high levels. I am committed to working with you to help you take the actions that are required under this ordinance.”

Point of Contact for Extension Requests:
Peter Nierengarten, City of Fayetteville Environmental Director
[email protected]