Photo Credit Elaine Collins
On March 28, 2023, the Breckenridge Town Council took a major step toward its material management goals with the passage of Ordinance 12-23 that phases out certain single-use plastics from food serviceware and beverage containers. Beginning May 4, 2023, all events permitted through the Special Event Permit Application (SEPA) will be required to comply with new regulations prohibiting single use plastic serviceware and single use plastic water bottles.
This article will provide event producers with the tools and checklist to launch a compliant zero waste event in Breckenridge.
Local regulations that pertain to events in Breckenridge
The SustainableBreck Plan (2022) has a material management goal to reduce materials going to the landfill by reducing waste at the source and increase the portion of waste that is diverted through recycling and composting.
Policy Strategy: Phase out certain single-use plastics by 2024.
Special Event Permit - Material Management Requirements
Material Management Plan
All events are required adhere to the plastic pollution reduction requirements and should submit a plan describing purchasing event inventory around waste prevention.
For Tier 2-3 events ONLY, a complete plan including a site map with waste and recycling stations is required. The plan should also identify your waste haulers, zero waste specialists, and post-event diversion reporting. If food is being served, composting service is required.
Sufficient Service
Waste and Recycling Containers
Signage
Vendor Communication
Attendee Communication
Food Serviceware, Containers + Hydration Stations
Reusable Products
Post Event Clean-up and Reporting
Un-Merch Your Event
Donate Inventory Not Accepted