Maplewood Bans Single Use Plastic Bags

MAPLEWOOD, NJ - It took several forms over several months, but after a series of fits and starts the Maplewood Township Committee approved a single use band on plastic bags Tuesday night.

The ban will be put into effect on July 1.

According to the interpretive statement, the purpose of this ordinance is to encourage the use of reusable bags by customers by reducing the use of disposable paper and plastic non-reusable checkout bags by retail establishments in the Township of Maplewood.

According to ordinance 2946-19 itself, single use plastic carry-out bags will be prohibited for use by retail establishments. There are several types of plastic bags are exempt. This would include those that are used for things like liked baked goods, frozen foods, meat and fish. You can read the complete ordinance here.

Also included in the ordinance is a five cent fee for paper bags. This does not go into effect until Sept. 1. Businesses can provide customers with free, compostable bags however.

Residents who identify themselves as low-income or a senior will be provided a paper bag without the five cent charge.

You can view the meeting, the vote and the commentary below.

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