Floating the river? What to know about the San Marcos River single-use can ban

As summer approaches, those in the Austin area are preparing their tubes and coolers for floating on the San Marcos River.

However, tubers will need to abide by a new single-use beverage container ban.

Here's what you need to know:

What exactly is banned?

According to the city council agenda from February, the following types of single-use beverage containers are not allowed:

• Metal
• Aluminium
• Glass
• Plastic
• Styrofoam
• Cardboard

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When is this can ban taking effect?

The San Marcos City Council approved the ban in February, and it will go into effect on May 1. According to the agenda, "Go Zones" and "No Zones" signs will mark areas where the use of single-use containers is allowed and not allowed.

What's the fine for using or littering single-use containers?

Littering with beverage containers can result in a fine of $250 to $500. Anyone who has a glass or single-use container in or on the river can receive a misdemeanor charge with a fine of $500 maximum.

Are coolers allowed?

Here are more things you can't do according to the city council agenda:

• Bring a cooler exceeding 30 quarts per person.
• Drink, carry or discard "an open alcoholic beverage container with a volume capacity of five fluid ounces or less in a city riverfront park or on or in the public waterway."

Drinking is still allowed for those "actively floating the river," according to the city of San Marcos website.