An ordinance eliminating the distribution of disposable plastic bags in Stamford begins on Friday, May 3.
The ordinance will also come with a 10 cent charge for recyclable carryout paper bags. The City says its hope is that residents will use reusable carryout bags that will help better serve the environment.
What qualifies as a “disposable carry out” bag?
Bags used by consumers made of any material that is provided to a consumer at the point of sale to carry purchases out of the store.
The following items are still acceptable to distribute under this ordinance
Bags used by consumers inside stores such as packaging bulk items (i.e. produce or small hardware items)
Bags used by consumers inside stores to contain or wrap frozen foods
Bags intended to wrap flowers or potted plants
Bags meant to contain unwrapped prepared foods or baked goods
Newspaper bags, door hanger bags, laundry/drycleaning bags, or garbage or other waste disposal bags
What is a compliant disposable carryout bag made of paper?
Must be 100% recyclable
Contain a minimum of 40% post-consumer recycled content
Conspicuously display the phrase “Please Recycle This Bag”, or a substantially similar phrase
Are any retail establishments exempt?
Yard sales, tag sales or any other personal sales by residents are not effected under this law
Citizens who qualify for government food assistance programs such as SNAP are exempt from charges related to disposable carry out bags