Phase-out of lightweight plastic bags in the United States


There is no national plastic bag fee or ban currently in effect in the United States. However, the states of California, Hawaii, New York, and Oregon, and the territories of American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico have banned disposable bags. Additionally, the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, and Vermont have passed laws banning disposable bags that are set to go into effect in 2020 or 2021. Over 200 counties and municipalities have enacted ordinances either imposing a fee on plastic bags or banning them outright, including all counties in Hawaii.
Some attempts at banning plastic shopping bags statewide have not succeeded mainly due to plastic industry lobbying. A few jurisdictions have chosen to implement a fee-only approach to bag reduction such as Connecticut, Washington, D.C. and adjacent Montgomery County, Maryland, although Connecticut plans on replacing the fee with a full ban by July 2021. Some US states, such as Florida and Arizona, have passed laws preventing local municipalities from passing their own bans. Some retailers have stopped using plastic bags ahead of government mandates.

Summary of plastic bag laws

State/TerritoryJurisdictionPassage dateEffective dateEffect
Alaska----
AlaskaCity of BethelPlastic bag ban.
AlaskaCity of HomerPlastic bag ban.
AlaskaCity of Hooper BayPlastic bag ban.
AlaskaCity of WasillaPlastic bag ban.
AlaskaCity of KodiakPlastic bag ban.
AlaskaCity of PalmerPlastic bag ban.
AlaskaCity-Borough of AnchoragePlastic bag ban, 10 cent charge for paper bags.
AlaskaUnalaskaPlastic bag ban
American Samoa
American Samoa
Plastic bag ban for all wholesale and retail businesses.
California
California
Plastic bag ban for large retailers; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
All local ordinances supersede this legislation.
Colorado----
ColoradoCity of AspenPlastic bag ban for large retailers; 20 cent charge for paper bags.
ColoradoTown of Avon1 May 2018Plastic bag ban; 10 cent tax on paper bags.
ColoradoCity of BoulderPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
ColoradoCity of CarbondalePlastic bag ban for large retailers; 20 cent charge for paper bags.
ColoradoTown of Crested ButtePlastic bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
ColoradoCity of Denver10 cent charge.
ColoradoTown of Ridgway1 March 2019Plastic bag ban; bags are banned under 2.25 mils.
ColoradoTown of TelluridePlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Connecticut----
Connecticut
Connecticut
10 cent charge.
ConnecticutTown of GreenwichPlastic bag ban. Sunsets in 3 years. Paper bags must contain 40% post-consumer content and no old-growth fiber.
ConnecticutTown of NorwalkPlastic bag ban.
ConnecticutTown of WestportPlastic bag ban. Defines acceptable "recyclable paper bag" alternatives.
Delaware
Delaware
Plastic bag ban applies to large stores and chains with 3 stores each larger than 3,000 square feet. Paper and reusable bags have a 10¢ fee. Compostable bags allowed.
District of ColumbiaWashington, D.C.Minimum 5 cent fee for plastic bags.
Guam
Guam
Plastic bag ban.
Hawaii----
HawaiiHawaii CountyBan on compostable and non-compostable plastic checkout bags. Allows plastic bags at least 3 mils.
HawaiiHonolulu City and CountyBill 10 in 2010 banned some plastic checkout bags but allowed biodegradable bags. Bill 38 in 2014 banned biodegradable plastic checkout bags but allowed compostable plastic bags. Plastic bags still allowed for carrying food and drinks, plastic bags at least 2.25 mils allowed.
HawaiiKauai CountyBan on plastic checkout bags made with fossil fuels. Biodegradable bags allowed.
HawaiiMaui CountyBan on compostable and non-compostable plastic checkout bags. Allows plastic bags at least 3 mils.
Illinois----
IllinoisChicagoPlastic and paper bags from retailers are taxed 7-cents per bag. Tax does not apply to bags with a retail price of at least 50¢.
Chicago repealed the ban it had passed 30 April 2014 that went into effect starting 1 August 2015. Reusable bags were defined as being at least 2.25 mils.
IllinoisCity of EvanstonBans plastic bags less than 2.25 mils at chain and franchise stores over 10,000 square feet. Biodegradable bags allowed.
Maine----
Maine
Maine
Plastic bag ban. Paper bags have a 5¢ fee.
MaineTown of Falmouth5-cent fee for single-use plastic bags at stores greater than 10,000 square feet. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 4 mils.
MaineCity of Portland5-cent fee for single-use plastic bags at pharmacies, and food and convenience stores, which is kept by the store.
MaineCity of South Portland5-cent fee for single-use plastic bags at pharmacies, and food and convenience stores, which is kept by the store. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 2.25 mils.
MaineTown of YorkPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 3 mils.
Maryland----
MarylandCity of BaltimorePlastic bag ban. Paper and other non-plastic bags have a five-cent fee.
MarylandTown of ChestertownPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 2.25 mils.
MarylandMontgomery CountyMinimum 5 cent fee for plastic bags.
MarylandCity of WestminsterPlastic bag ban.
Massachusetts----
MassachusettsTown of AdamsPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsCity of AmesburyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils.
MassachusettsTown of AmherstPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils.
MassachusettsTown of AndoverPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils and if plastic must be made of polypropylene or polyester.
MassachusettsTown of AquinnahPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
MassachusettsTown of Arlington & 1 July 2018 Plastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of AuburnPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of Barnstablec. September 2016Plastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils.
MassachusettsTown of BedfordPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsTown of BelmontPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4.0 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsCity of BeverlyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be more than 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsCity of BostonPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content. Fee of 5¢ on single-use bags. Compostable plastic bags allowed.
MassachusettsTown of BridgewaterPlastic bag ban for chain and larger stores. Reusable bags must be at least 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsTown of BrooklineNon-biodegradable plastic shopping bag ban for larger retailers, and produce bags for large supermarkets. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
MassachusettsTown of BurlingtonPlastic shopping bag ban. Reusable bags cannot be made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, and must be more than 3 mils thick. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsCity of CambridgePlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content. Fee of 10¢ on single-use bags. Compostable plastic bags allowed.
MassachusettsTown of ChathamPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsTown of ChilmarkPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of CohassetNon-biodegradable plastic shopping bag ban. Reusable bags cannot be made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, and must be more than 4 mils thick. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of ConcordPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsTown of Dartmouthlate 2019Plastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 1 mil.
MassachusettsTown of DuxburyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils.
MassachusettsTown of EastonPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags cannot be made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, and must be at least 4 mils thick.
MassachusettsTown of EasthamPlastic bag ban.
MassachusettsTown of EdgartownPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
MassachusettsTown of FalmouthPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsTown of FraminghamPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsTown of FranklinPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must have stitched handles and cannot made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of GeorgetownPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be more than 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsCity of GloucesterPlastic bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content. Reusable bags cannot be made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, and must be more than 2.25 mils.
MassachusettsTown of GraftonPlastic bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of Great BarringtonPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsCity of GreenfieldPlastic bag ban. Fee of 5¢ on paper bags goes into effect in January, 2021.
MassachusettsTown of HamiltonNon-biodegradable plastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils.
MassachusettsTown of HansonPlastic bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 20% or 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of HarwichPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsCity of HaverhillPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of HudsonPlastic bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 20% or 40% post-consumer recycled paper content. Reusable plastic bags cannot be made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride.
MassachusettsTown of HullPlastic bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of Ipswichc. August 2017Plastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils.
MassachusettsTown of LeePlastic bag ban including produce bags. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of LenoxPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of LexingtonPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 2.25 mils.
MassachusettsTown of LincolnPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be more than 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of LongmeadowPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be more than 4 mils. Reusable bags cannot be made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, and must be more than 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsCity of LowellPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be more than 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of LunenburgPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be more than 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsCity of LynnPlastic bag ban.
MassachusettsTown of Manchester-by-the-SeaPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be greater than 2.5 mils. Compostable plastic bags allowed.
MassachusettsTown of MarbleheadPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils.
MassachusettsTown of MashpeePlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
MassachusettsTown of MedfieldPlastic bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsCity of MedfordPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be more than 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of MedwayPlastic bag ban.
MassachusettsCity of MelrosePlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of MiltonPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be more than 4 mils and not made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of NatickPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2 mils. Paper bags must have at least 40% post-consumer recycled content.
MassachusettsCity of NewburyportPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils.
MassachusettsCity of NewtonPlastic bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content. And as amended on 8 July 2019, reusable bags must be more than 4 mils and not made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, and there is a fee of 10¢ on all shopping bags.
MassachusettsTown of North AttleboroughPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be more than 4 mils. Compostable bags allowed.
MassachusettsCity of NorthamptonPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be more than 3 mils.
MassachusettsTown of Oak BluffsPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
MassachusettsTown of PembrokePlastic bag ban.
MassachusettsTown of PepperellPlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be more than 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of PlainvillePlastic bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be more than 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of Plymouthc. August 2017Plastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of ProvincetownPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 1.5 mils.
MassachusettsTown of ReadingPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags cannot be made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, and must be at least 3 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsCity of RevereSingle-use plastic bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content. Reusable bags must be more than 4 mils.
MassachusettsTown of RockportPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags cannot be made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, and must be more than 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content. Compostable plastic bags are permitted.
MassachusettsTown of SandwichPlastic shopping and produce bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of SaugusPlastic shopping bag ban.
MassachusettsTown of SeekonkPlastic shopping bag ban.
MassachusettsTown of ScituatePlastic bag ban. Reusable bags cannot be made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of SharonPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils and not made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of ShrewsburyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsCity of SomervillePlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must pass a 22-pound walk test. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of South HadleyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Compostable bags allowed.
MassachusettsCity of SpringfieldPlastic bag ban except for those that are compostable and marine degradable. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils and not made of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of StockbridgePlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of StonehamPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils.
MassachusettsTown of TewksburyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of TisburyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
MassachusettsTown of TruroPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 1.5 mils.
MassachusettsTown of WatertownPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer, recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of WaylandPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of WellesleyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of WellfleetPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3.5 mils.
MassachusettsTown of West TisburyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
MassachusettsTown of WestboroughPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of WestonPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of WilliamstownPlastic bag ban including produce bags and dry cleaning bags. Reusable shopping bags must be at least 4 mils.
MassachusettsTown of WilmingtonPlastic bag ban. Reusable shopping bags must be more than 2.5 mils.
MassachusettsCity of WorcesterPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 3 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content. Fee of 5¢ on single-use bags. Compostable plastic bags allowed.
MassachusettsTown of WrenthamPlastic bag ban. Reusable shopping bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
MassachusettsTown of YarmouthPlastic shopping and produce bag ban. Paper bags must contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled paper content.
Minnesota City of Duluth5 cent charge
Minnesota City of Minneapolis5 cent charge
New JerseyBorough of AvalonSingle-use plastic bags, straws, and styrofoam banned.
New JerseyCity of BrigantineSingle-use plastic bags banned.
New JerseyBorough of Glen RockSingle-use plastic bags banned. Minimum of $.10 fee for reusable and recyclable paper bags.
New JerseyBorough of LongportA fee of not less than ten cents for each non-reusable carryout bag. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 2.25 mils.
New JerseyBorough of ParamusSingle-use plastic bags banned.
New JerseyVillage of RidgewoodSingle-use plastic bags banned.
New JerseyCity of Somers PointA fee of not less than five cents for each non-reusable carryout bag, excluding plastic bags without handles for bulk foods. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 2.25 mils.
New JerseyBorough of Stone HarborSingle-use plastic bags, straws, and styrofoam banned.
New JerseyCity of VentnorA fee of not less than five cents for each non-reusable carryout paper or plastic bags.
New MexicoCity of Santa FePlastic bag ban thinner than 2.25 mm.
New York----
New York
New York
Plastic bag ban. Counties can impose 5¢ fee on paper.
New YorkEast Hampton VillagePlastic bag ban.
New YorkVillage of Hastings on Hudson, Town of GreenburghPlastic bag ban.
New YorkVillage of MamaroneckPlastic bag ban.
New YorkTown of New CastlePlastic bag ban. Paper bags must be at least 40% recycled and carry a 10¢ charge. Reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils. Minimum 25¢ charge for reusable bags at grocery stores, convenience stores and pharmacies.
New YorkVillage of New PaltzPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils. Paper bags must contain "a minimum of 40% postconsumer recycled content".
New YorkVillage of PatchoguePlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils.
New YorkCity of RyePlastic bag ban.
New YorkVillage of SouthamptonPlastic bag ban.
New YorkSuffolk County5¢ fee for single-use plastic and paper bags. Reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils.
New YorkUlster CountyPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils. Paper bags must contain "a minimum of 40% postconsumer recycled content. 5¢ fee for single-use plastic and paper bags.
North CarolinaOuter Banks Plastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils. Paper bags must be at least 40% recycled.
Northern Mariana Islands
Northern Mariana Islands
Plastic bag ban.
OhioCuyahoga CountyPlastic bag ban.
Oregon----
Oregon
Oregon
Plastic bag ban; 5 cent charge for paper bags.
OregonCity of CorvallisPlastic bag ban; 5 cent charge for paper bags.
OregonCity of EugenePlastic bag ban; 5 cent charge for paper bags. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
OregonCity of PortlandPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
PennsylvaniaTown of NarberthPlastic bag ban.
PennsylvaniaCity of PhiladelphiaPlastic bag ban.
Rhode IslandTown of BarringtonPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
Rhode IslandTown of JamestownPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
Plastic bag ban.
South CarolinaSeveral counties and municipalitiesVariousVariousPlastic bag bans.
Texas----
TexasCity of AustinPlastic bag and paper bag ban. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 4 mils.
TexasCity of BrownsvilleSingle-use bag ban. $1 charge per transaction for any number of single-use plastic or paper bags. Reusable bags must be at least 4 mils if plastic or 65# if paper.
TexasCity of Dallas5¢ fee for single-use plastic and paper bags. Reusable plastic bags must be at least 4 mils.
TexasCity of Fort StocktonPlastic bag ban.
TexasCity of South Padre IslandPlastic bag ban.
United States Virgin Islands
United States Virgin Islands
Plastic bag ban.
UtahCity of MoabPlastic bag ban.
UtahCity of Park CityPlastic bag ban.
Vermont
Vermont
Plastic bag ban. Paper bags have a 10¢ fee.
VermontTown of BrattleboroPlastic bag ban. Plastic reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils thick. Certified compostable bags allowed.
Washington
Washington
Plastic bag ban. 8 cent charge for paper bags
WashingtonCity of Bainbridge IslandPlastic bag ban. 5 cent charge for paper bags.
WashingtonCity of BellinghamPlastic bag ban. 5 cent minimum charge for paper bags.
WashingtonCity of EdmondsPlastic bag ban.
WashingtonCity of EllensburgPlastic and paper bag fee. Reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils. 5 cent charge for all carry-out bags.
WashingtonCity of IssaquahPlastic bag ban.
WashingtonCity of MukilteoPlastic bag ban.
WashingtonCity of North BendPlastic bag ban.
WashingtonCity of OlympiaPlastic bag ban. 5 cent charge for paper bags.
WashingtonCity of Port AngelesPlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils. 5 cent charge for all carry-out bags.
WashingtonCity of Port TownsendPlastic bag ban. 5 cent charge for paper bags.
WashingtonCity of SeattlePlastic bag ban. Reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils. Minimum 5 cent charge for paper bags.
WashingtonCity of ShorelinePlastic bag ban. 5 cent charge for paper bags.
WashingtonThurston County Plastic bag ban. 5 cent charge for paper bags.
WashingtonCity of TacomaPlastic bag ban. 5 cent minimum charge for each recycled paper or reusable checkout bag requested by customers.
City of TumwaterPlastic bag ban. 5 cent charge for paper bags.-
WyomingCity of JacksonPlastic bag ban.

Notes
Californians voted in November 2016 to approve state legislation banning plastic bags statewide in Propositions 67 and 65. Over 100 local laws with similar or tougher regulations will remain and supersede the statewide legislation.
RegionCountyJurisdictions coveredPassage dateEffective dateEffect
Central ValleySacramento CountySacramento2015 – March2016 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Central ValleySacramento CountyUnincorporated territories2016 – April2016 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Central ValleyYolo CountyDavis2013 – November2014 – JulyPlastic bag ban.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyBeverly Hills2014 – 22 April2014 – 1 JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyCalabasas2011 – February2011 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyCulver City2013 – May2013 – DecemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyGlendale2013 – January2013 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyHermosa Beach2016 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyLong Beach2012 – February2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyLos Angeles2013 – June2014 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyMalibu2008 – May2009 – MayPlastic bag ban.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyManhattan Beach2008 – July2011 – JulyPlastic bag ban.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyMonrovia2014 – July2015 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyPasadena2011 – November2012 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyPico Rivera2014 – October2016 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountySanta Monica2011 – February2011 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountySouth Pasadena2014 – October2014 – DecemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyWest Hollywood2012 – August2013 – FebruaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaLos Angeles CountyUnincorporated territories2010 – November2012 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaOrange CountyDana Point2012 – March2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban.
Greater Los Angeles AreaOrange CountyHuntington Beach2013 – April2013 – NovemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaOrange CountyLaguna Beach2012 – February2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaRiverside CountyCathedral City2015 – July2016 – FebruaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaRiverside CountyDesert Hot Springs2014 – March2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban. Small fee for paper bag.
Greater Los Angeles AreaRiverside CountyIndio2014 – May2014 – NovemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaRiverside CountyPalm Desert2014 – May2015 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaRiverside CountyPalm Springs2014 – April2014 – NovemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater Los Angeles AreaVentura CountyOjai2012 – April2012 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaButte CountyChico2014 – May2015 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaEl Dorado CountySouth Lake Tahoe2013 – October2014 – FebruaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaHumboldt CountyArcata2014 – FebruaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMendocino CountyFort Bragg2012 – May2013 – DecemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMendocino CountyUkiah2012 – May2013 – FebruaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMendocino CountyUnincorporated territories2012 – June2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMono CountyMammoth Lakes2016 – MarchPlastic bag ban.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountyCarmel-by-the-Sea2012 – July2013 – FebruaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountyGreenfield2014 – August2015 – FebruaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountyGonzales2014 – July2015 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountyPacific Grove2014 – August2015 – MarchPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountyKing City2014 – September2015 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountyMarina2014 – AugustPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountyMonterey2011 – December2012 – JunePlastic bag ban; 25 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountySalinas2014 – AugustPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountySeaside2014 – August2015 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountySoledad2014 – October2015 – MayPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaMonterey CountyUnincorporated territories2014 – AugustPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaNevada CountyGrass Valley2014 – August2015 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban. Small fee for paper bag.
Northern CaliforniaNevada CountyNevada City2014 – June2015 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Northern CaliforniaNevada CountyTruckee2013 – November2014 – JunePlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyAlameda2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyAlbany2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyBerkeley2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyDublin2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyEmeryville2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyFremont2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyHayward2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyLivermore2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyOakland2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyPiedmont2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyPleasanton2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountySan Leandro2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyUnion City2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaAlameda CountyUnincorporated territories2012 – January2013 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban for food and liquor stores, and pharmacies; reusable bags must be at least 2.25 mils; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa County----
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa CountyDanville2014 – December2016 – JulyPlastic bag ban.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa CountyHercules2014 – September2015 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa CountyLafayette2014 – December2015 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa CountyMartinez2014Plastic bag ban.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa CountyPittsburg2013 – October2014 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; phased charge for paper bags until 25 cents in the third year.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa CountyPleasant Hill2014 – AugustPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa CountyRichmond2013 – July2014 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa CountySan Pablo2013 – October2014 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban. Ten cent fee for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaContra Costa CountyWalnut Creek2014 – March2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin County----
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountyCorte Madera2015 – July2015 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban. 10 cent charge for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountyFairfax2007 – August2008 – NovemberPlastic bag ban. 10 cent charge for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountyLarkspur2014 – May2014 – NovemberPlastic bag ban. 10 cent charge for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountyMill Valley2013 – 21 October2013 – 21 NovemberPlastic bag ban; 5 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountyNovato2014 – MarchPlastic bag ban. 10 cent charge for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountyRoss2014 – September2015 – AprilPlastic bag ban. 10 cent charge for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountySan Anselmo2015 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban. 10 cent charge for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountySan Rafael2014 – March2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban. 10 cent charge for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountySausalito2014 – MarchPlastic bag ban. 10 cent charge for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountyTiburon2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban. 10 cent charge for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaMarin CountyUnincorporated territories2011 – January2012 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaNapa County----
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaNapa CountyAmerican Canyon2016 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaNapa CountyCalistoga2014 – August2015 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaNapa CountyNapaNapa2014 – AugustPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaNapa CountySt. Helena2014 – August2015 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban. Ten cent fee for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaNapa CountyYountville2016 – February2016 – MarchPlastic bag ban. Ten cent fee for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaNapa CountyUnincorporated territories2016 – January2016 – JulyPlastic bag ban. Ten cent fee for paper bag.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Francisco City and CountySan Francisco2007 – AprilLimited plastic bag ban.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Francisco City and CountySan Francisco2012 – February2012 – OctoberExpansion of ban to cover all retail stores in 2012 and all restaurants in 2013. 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyBelmont2013 – January2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyBrisbane2013 – March2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyBurlingame2013 – March2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyColma2013 – January2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyDaly City2013 – January2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyEast Palo Alto2013 – April2013 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyHalf Moon Bay2013 – March2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyMenlo Park2013 – March2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyMillbrae2012 – February2012 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyPacifica2012 – December2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyPortola Valley2013 – January2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyRedwood City2013 – March2013 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountySan Bruno2013 – January2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountySan Carlos2013 – March2013 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountySan Mateo2013 – May2013 – JunePlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountySouth San Francisco2012 – December2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSan Mateo CountyUnincorporated territories2012 – November2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyCampbell2013 – July2014 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyCupertino2013 – March2013 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyLos Altos2013 – March2013 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyLos Gatos2013 – September2014 – FebruaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyMilpitas2015 – September2016 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyMorgan Hill2013 – October2014 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyMountain View2012 – December2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyPalo Alto--Plastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyPalo Alto2013 – May2013 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountySan Jose2011 – January2012 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountySanta Clara2014 – September2014 – DecemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountySunnyvale2011 – December2012 – JunePlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Clara CountyUnincorporated territories2011 – April2012 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Cruz CountyCapitola2013 – January2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 25 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Cruz CountySanta Cruz2012 – July2013 – AprilPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Cruz CountyWatsonville2012 – May2012 – JunePlastic bag ban; 25 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Cruz CountyUnincorporated territories2011 – September2012 – MarchPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSanta Cruz CountyUnincorporated territories2012 – October2013 – AprilExpansion of ban to restaurants.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountyCloverdale2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountyCotati2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountyHealdsburg2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountyPetaluma2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountyRohnert Park2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountySanta Rosa2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountySebastopol2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountySonoma2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountyWindsor2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Greater San Francisco Bay AreaSonoma CountyUnincorporated territories2014 – February2014 – SeptemberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSan Diego CountyDel Mar2016 – May2016 – November
2017 – May
Plastic bag ban.
Southern CaliforniaSan Diego CountyEncinitas2014 – September2015 – AprilPlastic bag ban. Small fee for paper bag.
Southern CaliforniaSan Diego CountySan Diego2016 – July2017 – JanuaryPlastic bag ban. Ten cent fee for paper bag.
Southern CaliforniaSan Diego CountySolana Beach2012 – May2012 – JunePlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSan Luis Obispo CountyArroyo Grande2012 – January2012 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSan Luis Obispo CountyAtascadero2012 – January2012 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSan Luis Obispo CountyGrover Beach2012 – January2012 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSan Luis Obispo CountyMorro Bay2012 – January2012 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSan Luis Obispo CountyPaso Robles2012 – January2012 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSan Luis Obispo CountyPismo Beach2012 – January2012 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSan Luis Obispo CountySan Luis Obispo2012 – January2012 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSan Luis Obispo CountyUnincorporated territories2012 – January2012 – OctoberPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSanta Barbara CountyCarpinteria2012 – March2012 – JulyPlastic bag ban; 10 cent charge for paper bags.
Southern CaliforniaSanta Barbara CountySanta Barbara2013 – October2014 – DecemberPlastic bag ban. Ten cent fee for paper bag.

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