Single-Use Plastics Ordinance Information
Ordinance No. 2547-19
The purpose of this Ordinance is to prohibit the use of single-use plastic carryout bags and polystyrene containers at retail establishments and reduce the use of single-use straws within the Township.
The Effective Date of the Ordinance is June 12, 2020.
See a full copy of the Ordinance here: Ordinance No. 2547-19 (PDF)
Summary of Law
- Single-use plastic carryout bags are banned in ALL retail establishments
- Polystyrene (frequently referred to as styrofoam) carryout containers are banned in ALL retail establishments
- Single-use straws are available only upon request
- Paper bags may be offered to customers for a fee of five-cents per bag
- Reusable bags may be offered to customers for a fee of at least ten-cents per bag
- Customers may bring their own bags, of ANY type, with them to carry out their purchases
- Retailers must keep the bag fees
- The only plastic bags and polystyrene containers banned by this Ordinance are those used to carry out purchases
Resources
- When does the law go into effect?
- Why do we need a plastic reduction law in Millburn Township?
- Is the problem really that bad that we needed this law?
- Why is there a charge for paper bags and reusable bags?
- What about “biodegradable” or “compostable” plastic bags? Why not use them?
- Why aren’t paper bags banned?
- Are any types of plastic bags allowed to be used or sold by retailers?
- Are retailers prohibited from selling multi-bag packages of sandwich bags, garbage bags or pet waste bags?
- Am I allowed to use my own bags, including plastic bags, in a store?
- Aren’t some reusable bags made from plastic?
- Are reusable bags safe to use? Do they carry germs or bacteria?
- Can retailers force me to pay for a bag?
- What will I use if I forget my own bags and do not want to pay a bag fee?
- How do I remember to take my bags with me?
- What if I need a straw to drink my beverage?
- Where can I obtain a copy of Ordinance No. 2547-19?
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