Sample Plastic Bag Ordinance

To better assist local leaders and activists to reduce plastic waste in their cities, CALPIRG has developed a sample ordinance targeting one of the most emblematic items of unnecessary plastic: the plastic bag. This ordinance is intended to improve and expand local plastic bag regulations. It is based on best practices from around the state.

This sample ordinance promotes the use of reusable bags and eliminates the use of plastic carryout bags at apparel stores, farmers’ markets, food or beverage facilities, hardware stores, large events, large venues, and open-air markets. Government leaders and local advocates can leverage this ordinance as a tool for finally ending plastic bag pollution in their cities.