Bring Your Own Bag Plastic Reduction Act

Green Reusable Bag

Bring Your Own Bag Plastic Reduction Act Bill 19-23

In June 2023, the Anne Arundel County Council passed Bill No. 19-23 Bring Your Own Bag Plastic Reduction Act prohibiting the retail distribution of plastic bags in the county. 

View Bill 19-23

Plastic Reduction Act Dates & Facts

Customers are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags

Effective January 1, 2024

Anne Arundel County retailers will no longer be able to provide plastic bags to customers for their purchases at checkout. Retailers can provide paper bags or reusable bags to customers at checkout for purchase.  

This law only applies to bags provided at checkout, and does not apply in the City of Annapolis.

This prohibition does not apply to food service facilities operated by a school, nor does it apply to plastic bags used to contain, package, or wrap:

  • Bakery goods or unwrapped prepared foods
  • Raw meat or seafood 
  • Bulk items, including fruits, nuts, grains
  • Other food items that can only be transported in a plastic bag (i.e. ice)
  • Fresh flowers, potted plants, or fresh herbs
  • Hanging garments or dry-cleaned clothes
  • Live fish, insects, mollusks, or crustaceans
  • Cigar or loose tobacco
  • Newspapers

Effective February 1, 2024

Retailers must charge at least 10 cents per bag. This fee is kept by the retailer to cover the cost of the bags. Retailers may provide free reusable bags annually from April 22 - April 30 in recognition of Earth Day, and for any 10-day period during a given month established by the retailer. 

Restaurants

Restaurants may provide paper bags without charge.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies may provide paper bags without charge for prescriptions.

FAQs & Graphics

Violations

There have been no violations issued at this time.

If you suspect a violation, please report it to the appropriate agency: