Sacramento is saying goodbye to single–use plastic bags and here’s what you need to know to make sure you are prepared!
Beginning January 1, 2016, plastic bags will be banned from certain stores. Join the “Bring your own Sac” movement by bringing your own bag (#BYOSac) to the store to carry your purchases, or opt to buy a paper or reusable bag at check-out for a minimum of 10 cents per bag.
Plastic bags will no longer be available at grocery stores, large pharmacies, convenience stores, markets, and stores that have a grocery or pharmacy as one of their departments. Stores that are not required to stop using single–use plastic bags include retailers that do not sell food (and do not have a pharmacy, restaurants, and farmer’s markets.)
Bags exempt from the ban and the 10 cent fee include bags provided for carrying produce or meat within a store, prescription medication, and for segregating food or merchandise that could damage or contaminate other food or merchandise.
“This is about our city resuming our spot as a leader in the state of California and doing the right thing.” – Mayor Kevin Johnson
The plastic bag ordinance was unanimously passed by the City of Sacramento on March 1, 2015. The goal of this ordinance is to reduce the waste and harm that the bags may cause. Often times, these bags may end up in natural environments where they may contaminate the earth and waterways.
If you are a retailer, find more information on how the bag ban affects you on our webpage. Shoppers may find additional details here.
